Non-invasive molecular species identification using spider silk proteomics.

ABSTRACT: Accurate species identification is essential in biology, ecology, medicine, and agriculture, yet traditional methods relying on morphological characteristics often fail due to phenotypic plasticity and cryptic species. These limitations are particularly pronounced in small organisms with minimal distinguishing features. DNA barcoding has become a popular alternative; however, it requires invasive tissue sampling, making it unsuitable for delicate or rare organisms like insects and spiders. To address this challenge, we propose a non-invasive molecular method using proteomic analysis focused on species-specific protein sequences in spider silk, offering a viable solution for species identification without harming specimens. We developed a universal silk-dissolving method, followed by sequen

SUBMITTER: Yamamoto PK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12015514 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature