Rieter: First Information On The Financial Year 2022

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland — January 25, 2023 — In a very challenging economic environment, Rieter succeeded in significantly increasing sales and expects a positive EBIT margin for the 2022 financial year.

For Rieter, in addition to the geopolitical uncertainties, the 2022 financial year was characterized by three main challenges:

Due to the rapid rise in inflation, the exceptionally high order backlog of around CHF 1 840 million at the beginning of 2022 was processed at significantly higher costs. It was only possible to offset these higher costs in part by means of price increases and other remedial measures.

In order to safeguard deliveries, it was necessary to compensate for serious material bottlenecks, particularly in electronic components, which resulted in considerable additional development expenditure.

Major expenses were also incurred in connection with the acquired businesses (Accotex, Temco and Winder).

Sales

The realization of sales from the exceptionally high order backlog developed better than expected. With sales of 1,510.9 million Swiss francs ($1,650 million), Rieter achieved an increase of 56 percent compared with the previous year (2021: 969.2 million Swiss francs ($1,058 million)). In the second half of 2022, especially in the fourth quarter, the measures introduced to address material bottlenecks had a positive impact. Consequently, sales increased to 890.3 million Swiss francs  ($972 million) compared with the first six months (first half-year 2022: 620.6 million Swiss francs  ($678 million).

EBIT margin

The trend in the EBIT margin was strongly influenced by substantial cost increases, which could only be offset in part through price increases and other remedial measures. In addition, to compensate for material shortages, expenses were incurred in connection with the development of alternative solutions and the acquired businesses.

Rieter succeeded in improving profitability compared with the first half of 2022 due to the higher sales volume and offsetting measures to compensate for increased costs, and expects a positive EBIT margin of around 2 percent for the full year 2022 (2021: 4.9 percent).

Order intake

In line with expectations, the order intake of 1,157.3 million Swiss francs ($1,263 million) in 2022 was below the record year of 2021 (2,225.7 million Swiss francs ($2,464 million). The market situation is characterized by investment restraint due to geopolitical uncertainties, higher financing costs and consumer reticence in important markets.

Order backlog

The company had an order backlog of around 1,540 million Swiss francs ($1,682 million) at the end of 2022, which thus extends well into 2023 and 2024. In 2022, Rieter recorded order cancellations of less than 10 percent of the order backlog of 1,840 million Swiss francs ($2,009 million) at the beginning of the year.

Preparations for ITMA 2023 on schedule

Rieter has continued to boost its innovative capability and, in order to further extend its technology leadership, will present new innovative solutions at ITMA 2023 in Milan.

Action plan to increase sales and profitability

Implementation of the action plan to increase sales and profitability is ongoing. With regard to the profitability of the order backlog, which remains high, the implemented price increases in combination with a favorable trend in costs, particularly in logistics, are having an impact. In addition, progress was made in eliminating material bottlenecks and reducing expenses for the three acquired businesses.

Rieter site sales process

The sales process for the remaining land at the Rieter site in Winterthur (Switzerland) is proceeding according to plan. In total, around 75,000 square meters of land will be sold.
The Rieter CAMPUS is not part of this transaction.

Results press conference 2023

Rieter will provide further details on the 2022 financial year and an outlook for the 2023 financial year on March 9, 2023. In addition, the full 2022 Annual Report will be published, and a press conference will be held.

Annual General Meeting of April 20, 2023

The next Annual General Meeting of Rieter Holding AG will take place on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Proposals regarding the agenda must be submitted in writing, accompanied by information concerning the relevant motions and evidence of the necessary shareholdings (with a par value of 0.5 million Swiss francs ($0.55 million) as stipulated by Article 9 of the Articles of Association), by no later than February 17, 2023, to Rieter Holding Ltd., Office of the Company Secretary, Klosterstrasse 32,
CH-8406 Winterthur, Switzerland.

Posted: January 26, 2023

Source: Rieter Holding Ltd.

Orion Sharply Reduces Air Emissions With New Technology At Borger, Texas, Plant

HOUSTON — January 24, 2023 — Orion Engineered Carbons, a global specialty chemicals company, said today it will sharply reduce air emissions at its Borger, Texas, plant with new control technology.

The $60 million project also involved upgrading the site’s cogeneration system, which takes heat created by the carbon black production process and converts it to electricity that can be used by the plant. The electricity is also sold back to the power grid. Such energy conservation equipment is used by many Orion plants worldwide.

“Investing in emissions control technology and generating more clean energy are key to our commitment to sustainability,” Orion CEO Corning Painter said. “I want to commend our engineers, the Borger team and our contractors for the timely completion of this complex project despite the Covid-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions.”

The new emissions technology will lead to a major improvement in air quality, eliminating 23 tons of nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide emissions per day – a 90% reduction. The Borger plant produces carbon black for rubber and specialty clients.

Orion also recently upgraded its emissions control technology at facilities in Ivanhoe, La., and Orange, Texas. Later this year, Orion plans to finish its final U.S. emissions project at its site in Belpre, Ohio.

“We are proud that we’ve upgraded these plants, but it was an extremely demanding undertaking,” Painter said. “As we complete the Belpre project, Orion will have significantly more free cash flow to invest in growth projects. 2023 marks a new era for the company.”

Upgrading the Borger plant supports Orion’s efforts to achieve the targets in its sustainability-linked term loan. Last year, Orion was one of the first public companies to take out such a loan, which has interest rates that go up or down depending on whether a company meets specific environmental, social and governance goals.

Posted: January 24, 2023

Source: Orion Engineered Carbons

Levi’s® Celebrates 150 Years Of The Iconic Levi’s 501® Fit

SAN FRANCISCO — January 23, 2023 — Today, the Levi’s® brand kicked off a yearlong celebration of the 150th anniversary of its most iconic design: the Levi’s 501® jean. Throughout the year, the Levi’s brand will celebrate with those who made the garment what it is today and those who will drive its future success: consumers, employees and communities around the world.

“We’re extremely honored and proud to celebrate such an incredible milestone of an industry icon,” said Michelle Gass, president at Levi Strauss & Co. “Levi’s 501 jeans are not just a staple in closets everywhere, but a garment woven into the very history of apparel and design. It’s a product that has withstood the test of time and today continues to make the Levi’s brand stronger than ever before with the Levi’s 501 family growing nearly 30% compared to the year prior. You simply can’t tell the story of Levi’s, or of fashion, without telling the story of Levi’s 501 jeans.”

What began as a patent for copper rivets on work pants granted on May 20, 1873, has become the most iconic and influential piece of clothing ever created over the last 150 years. A canvas for rule-breaking, do-what-you-want style, the 501 family has broken the boundaries of time and culture, showing up in closets across generations. And as today’s denim era centers around looser and more relaxed fits across men’s and women’s, the Levi’s 501 family continues to be a fan favorite everywhere.

“Since its invention in 1873, the Levi’s 501 jean has taken on a life of its own, becoming a beloved global icon of culture and enduring style,” said Karyn Hillman, chief product officer at Levi Strauss & Co. “The 501 fit has transcended from pure utilitarian workwear to an everyday uniform adopted by fans in every corner of the cultural landscape, across multiple generations. With such a monumental anniversary for the brand, we’ve leaned into our history, while threading through innovation and modern design, to bring a unique and exciting range of Levi’s products to consumers around the world.”

The Levi’s brand will celebrate across all channels, both in person and through its app and website, to bring exciting and memorable experiences to fans everywhere, including:

  • Product freshness and innovation: As the category leader in denim with a history of innovation and design, the Levi’s brand has the privilege to drive the future of the denim industry. The Levi’s 501 fit has evolved and adapted over time — for 150 years — and it is that adaptability that has allowed the 501 family to continue to thrive. To celebrate the 150th anniversary, the Levi’s brand will be introducing new innovations to the 501 family, from limited-edition product drops like the reimagined 1873 “XX Waist Overalls” (the Levi’s brand’s first blue jeans) to mainline product newness with the Men’s 501 ‘54 and the Women’s 501 ‘81. These products will be released throughout the year, and you can find more about these styles on Levi.com.
  • Remaining at the heart of culture: Throughout the last decade, the brand has made a concerted effort to put itself back at the center of culture, deepening brand affiliation with today’s consumers. For the 150th anniversary of the Levi’s 501 fit, this strategy will continue to be ever more paramount. With its deep ties to the music industry, the brand will show up in a meaningful way at key music events through a partnership with Rolling Loud. The brand is partnering with celebrities and influencers like Barbie Ferreira and Emma Chamberlain to further its reach with consumers. Lastly, the brand will be hosting unique in-person celebrations for the 501 family’s actual birthday on May 20. More details will be announced soon.
  • Big perks for Red Tab loyalty members: Three years ago, the Levi’s brand launched its Red Tab loyalty program, giving fans early access to limited-edition products, special events, tailor shop services and personalized promotions, to name a few. This year, members will get early access to some of the best new 501 products as well as opportunities to win exclusive prizes like a chance to attend special VIP events celebrating the 150th anniversary. More details on the events will be shared in the coming months.

To join the excitement, visit Levi.com or a store near you. And to stay informed on the latest news and products from the Levi’s brand, be sure to become a Red Tab Loyalty member.

Posted: January 24, 2023

Source: Levi Strauss & Co.

Men’s Wearhouse And Michael Strahan™ Launch Custom Suiting Program

HOUSTON — January 23, 2023 — Men’s Wearhouse, the largest specialty menswear retailer in the U.S. for 50 years, announced today the launch of the Michael Strahan™ Custom Made to Measure Suiting Program, the latest development in its longstanding partnership with Michael Strahan. Every Men’s Wearhouse location nationwide will have a team of expert tailors available to guide clients through their fitting, with the ability to personalize every element of their suit using a co-create Custom Builder App for a unique, seamless and digital experience. Customers have the option to choose from a selection of performance fabrics, a wide range of interior linings and specialized elements such as pocket type, lapels and stitching. This program is designed to help people of all shapes and sizes customize styles that suit their personalities and preferences at accessible price points, delivering one-of-a-kind looks for their social, professional or wedding party needs.

“Since joining forces in 2020, our partnership with Men’s Wearhouse has always been about taking the Michael Strahan™ lifestyle brand to the next level,” Strahan said. “Together, we’ve brought elevated styles to Men’s Wearhouse shoppers nationwide, and now we’re creating first-class and inclusive experiences for all customers, of all body types, to seamlessly create their own made-to-measure suit. We hand-picked a selection of exceptional stretch fabrics and bold prints based on the suits I wear that always provide me with comfort and confidence in the moments that matter on and off camera.”

From the personalized fit, choice of fabric, lining selection, and special details, the custom program speaks to customers who truly want to own their looks and make every element unique to them. Fits will range from slim, to modern to executive, and all garments are designed with an exclusive Michael Strahan™ stretch waistband for ultimate comfort. Customers can choose from a wide range of curated fabric styles that align with the Michael Strahan™ collection, including exclusive statement lining options with unique Michael Strahan™ branding. Fabric patterns include stripes, houndstooth, and plaid, while colors range from classic black and navy to gray and wine. Fit is a top priority and, with sizes ranging from 32 to 62, this new program gives all customers an option to own a custom suit that is tailored to their specific body type.

“We are thrilled to launch this exclusive line with Michael and continue to expand our partnership,” said John Tighe, President of Tailored Brands. “We’ve seen tremendous success with the Michael Strahan™ collection for Men’s Wearhouse, so combining his style with our tailoring expertise felt like a natural next step in providing a personalized and accessible option for customers who want to look and feel their best.”

Michael Strahan™ Custom is now available at all Men’s Wearhouse stores nationwide. The launch builds upon the brand’s partnership with Michael Strahan, which began in 2020 and includes an ever-growing collection of tailored, sportswear, knits, polos, denim, and more.

Posted: January 24, 2023

Source: Men’s Wearhouse – a subsidiary of Tailored Brands

Shaniko’s Jeanne Carver Receives Major Award From U.S. Sheep Industry

MAUPIN, Oregon — January 23, 2023 — Jeanne Carver, president and founder of Shaniko Wool Co., has won the American Sheep Industry Association’s 2023 Innovation Award, which recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of an individual or organization that has improved the US sheep industry in a game-changing way.

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) represents the interests of more than 100,000 sheep producers in the US and a federation of 45 state sheep associations.

Carver has been pioneering her own path in the industry for 25 years, prevailing against tough odds when offshoring of wool in the late 1990’s began decimating the same U.S. sheep markets that ranchers had relied on for over 100 years.

“During the 1990’s, when our industry was feeling the pressure of offshoring in textile processing and manufacturing, along with consolidation in the food sector and import pressures on lamb, Jeanne led her family out of commodity wool and lamb sales to direct sale and marketing of wool and lamb products,” said Anthony Theos of Theos Swallow Fork Ranch.

“They maintained that momentum for more than 20 years, expanding and growing their marketing efforts. Around 2015, when the international textile market was moving toward third-party certification of wool, Jeanne led [her family ranch] forward, becoming the first ranch in the world certified to what has become the leading wool certification in the world – the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS).”

Developed by Textile Exchange, the RWS sets strict standards for the handling of sheep stock, land conservation and worker safety.

In 2018, Carver took what she had learned during the RWS certification of her own ranch and formed Shaniko Wool Co. (SWC) to scale the supply of RWS-certified US Merino wool available to US apparel brands.

Currently, SWC includes 10 sheep producers located in the American West, grazing on over 2.6 million acres and shearing an estimated 500,000 pounds of fine Merino wool every year. All have been audited and are certified under the RWS. Other ranches are waiting in the wings to join her farm group.

“These growers are the reason I am winning this award,” said Carver of the sheep ranches that are now RWS-certified and part of the Shaniko Wool Co. farm group. Today, Shaniko Wool is the only North American provider of Merino/Rambouillet wool certified under the RWS. “I am speechless, but very honored and humbled by the recognition,” said Carver. “The ranchers who are part of Shaniko Wool are industry leaders at both the state and national level.”

Her sheep producers receive an annual 20 to 25 percent premium price for their wool, which reflects increased demand from consumers for authenticity and transparency with regard to sustainability, humane treatment of sheep stock and worker welfare.

Not one to rest on a laurel, in early 2020, Carver formed a research team and launched a Carbon Measurement Initiative for the Shaniko Wool farm group to determine the ecosystem and climate impacts of each ranching operation.  “With three years of verified data and having baseline measures across more than 2 million acres, the preliminary results are impressive,” said Julie Hansmire of Campbell Hansmire Sheep. “Jeanne has shown visionary leadership in supporting the research and investment in measurement that proves the ecosystem value of progressive sheep grazing operations.”

In 2022, Carver further expanded the reach of Shaniko Wool Co. by signing an exclusive licensing agreement with the Paris-based Chargeurs Group, which is one of one of the largest wool suppliers in the world.

The new Chargeurs-Shaniko Wool Co. joint regenerative wool program was formally introduced to global apparel markets in November of 2022 under the name, NATIVA™Regen-Shaniko. Backed by Blockchain technology, NATIVA™Regen-Shaniko is fully traceable from farm to end product and dual certified under the RWS and NATIVA™Regen, a third-party certified standard developed by Chargeurs.

This is the only wool grown in North America that is certified under the RWS at both farm and mill levels. Chargeurs’ US wool scouring mill in Jamestown, SC, earned RWS certification in 2022.

“The work I am doing today with these family sheep operations is the most rewarding work I’ve ever done,” said Carver. “They are good people doing great work, supporting rural communities and our U.S. textile industry. Together, we are stronger. It’s a great privilege.”

Posted: January 23, 2023

Source: Shaniko Wool Co.

Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering Welcomes Commercial Interiors Industry Titan Paul Cleary As New President And CEO

IRVINE, Calif. — January 23, 2023 — Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering, the commercial interiors industry’s largest supplier of contract textiles and wallcoverings, is pleased to announce Paul Cleary as its new president and CEO, effective immediately. Cleary aims to bolster the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.

Cleary most recently held the role of senior vice president of Healthcare at global flooring company Mohawk Group, where he worked for more than 15 years in various capacities. Cleary also has an impressive track record of C-Suite experience, serving as CEO & president at Twitchell Technical Products. Prior to his work at Twitchell, Cleary was president of Hospitality at Tarkett Hospitality— a role he held following a previous term as CEO at Lexmark Carpet, where he worked with H.I.G. Capital to lead the firm’s successful exit and secure the company’s acquisition by Tarkett.

“It is an honor to take over as CEO and lead the talented team at Momentum,” said Cleary. “I am looking forward to continuing the commitment to sustainability and innovation that has resulted in Momentum being one of the most reputable textile and wallcovering brands in the world.”

Cleary’s team at Momentum will have a strong focus on curating solutions for all commercial interior markets, specifically providing exceptional ground-up design capability, color flexibility and running-line options to service all aspects of the industry.

“Paul brings years of leadership and skills to Momentum at a time when we are primed for growth,” stated Meranee Phing, senior partner, The Riverside Co. “His proven ability to drive successful commercial growth strategies coupled with his unique industry knowledge will elevate Momentum to new heights.”

Cleary is a Business Administration and Management graduate of Trinity College Dublin and a Business Management and Marketing graduate of the Technological University Dublin. Born and raised in Ireland, Cleary now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. He plans to divide his time between his home city and Momentum’s corporate headquarters in Irvine, California.

Posted: January 23, 2023

Source: Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering

RIFIL Launches Infinity® Yarns with Regel™

BANGKOK, Thailand — January 23, 2023 — RIFIL Group, is launching a new range of environmentally friendly worsted yarns called Infinity® with GRS® certification, which is made with recycled acrylic fibre, Regel™. The new high-performance yarn will be launched in the trade show of Pitti Filati – Florence, Italy in January this year.

Infinity® by RIFIL, is made of recycled acrylic fibre, Regel™. Infinity® is a top-performing recycled yarn suitable for all end applications. It is developed to preserve all the key properties: natural hand-feel, vibrant shades, color brightness, comfort performances with a GRS certification along with transparency and traceability from waste to retail.

RIFIL Group is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of acrylic and Wool Blend Yarns with up-to-date technology and quality of production, based in Romania. REFIL produces 20,000,000 kg of thread every year for fashion, knitwear, fabrics that are resistant to weathering and sunlight, as well as indoor & outdoor furniture.

“I am delighted to be launching a sustainable yarn range made of recycled acrylic fibre. This enables us to make a step into a circular direction that helps conserve natural resources without compromising the end-product performance,” says Olmo Falco, Group Manager RIFIL Group. “We know that Circular Economy is at the core of ABG group sustainability strategy and TAF is part of it. So, we fully trust on their high-performance materials which will help drive Infinity® to be a new sustainable alternative to our customers”, added Mr. Falco.

“We are excited to see RIFIL upcycling Regel™ into high-performance & quality yarn. With REFIL’s knowledge & technology combining with Regel™, we believe that this will drive the development of high-performance Infinity® to positive change within the industry and customers’ expectation,” says Tuhin Kulshreshtha, Head of Marketing, TAF.

Regel™ is made from recycling acrylic waste – It is manufactured with an authentic and intimate chemical recycling process which is functionally equivalent to acrylic fibre like warmth, comfort, and vibrant shades. Regel™ is a GRS certified acrylic fibre and bluesign® APPROVED.

Posted: January 23, 2023

Source: Thai Acrylic Fibre Co., Ltd.

ColorJet Retains Platinum Sponsorship Of ITMA 2023

NOIDA, India — January 23, 2023 — ColorJet Group signed for the Platinum Sponsorship of the world’s leading textile and garment machinery exhibition ITMA 2023, scheduled from June 8-14, 2023, at Fiera Milano, Milan, Italy.

The sponsorship was sealed at a meeting held after the exhibition site visit on January 12 in Milan. The sponsorship agreement was handed over to Smarth Bansal, general manager, ColorJet Group, by Ms Eileen Ng, deputy project director and head of Marketing, ITMA 2023.

ITMA is recognized as the ‘Olympics’ of textile and garment machinery exhibitions. It showcases technologies and products for the entire textile making value chain. ITMA 2023 is set to make a strong presentation with over 1,570 exhibitors from 42 countries.

On the occasion, M.S Dadu – chairman, ColorJet Group, said: “This is indeed a momentous occasion for ColorJet Group to be a Platinum Sponsor of ITMA second time in a row. Also, considering the global digital textile printing market size which is expected to reach $7.9 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 14.8% from 2021 to 2030, we are sure that this Partnership will help to reinforce our brand strength on global platform and positioned ColorJet as leading manufacturer company of digital textile printers.”

Ng commented: “As a leading manufacturer of digital textile printers, ColorJet understands the value of association with ITMA, the world’s largest international textile and garment technology exhibition. Both organizations have a common passion for the textile industry. We are delighted that they have extended their association with us for another edition. We would like to wish them success with their participation in ITMA 2023.”

ColorJet will be demonstrating the range of textile printing solutions in Hall: H7, Booth No B-107.

Posted: January 23, 2023

Source: ColorJet India Ltd

MAS Holdings Announces A Joint Venture With The Tata Group’s Trent Ltd. In India

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — January 23, 2023 — MAS Amity Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of MAS Holdings, signed a Joint Venture Agreement on the 20th of January 2023 with Tata Group’s Trent Ltd, setting up an entity in India for the joint development of business into intimate wear and other apparel related products.

Over time, MAS and Trent would pool their domain expertise to undertake design, development and manufacturing of a range of intimate wear and other apparel products. Initially, the joint venture would facilitate design and sourcing of related products.

Speaking on the occasion, Desamanya Mahesh Amalean, chairman, MAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd., said: “The significance of our partnership with Tata lies in our shared sense of values and an appreciation of the enormous business opportunities that the Indian market affords. This JVA will help leverage our combined capabilities, connecting MAS’ expertise in product creation and manufacturing with Tata Trent’s expertise in Indian retail. This partnership further aligns with MAS’ long-term intent to scale business and expand our presence in India.”

Noel N Tata, chairman, Trent Ltd., said: “We see significant opportunities to leverage the growing reach of our brands to build a differentiated proposition in lingerie, activewear and related categories. MAS brings impeccable capabilities and track record in the manufacture of high-quality products in this space. This collaboration between Trent and MAS would deepen Trent’s strategic commitment to offer fully owned brands at its retail stores and enable MAS to expand their international presence further. We are excited at the prospects of leveraging our joint synergies and deliver greater value to our customers.”

Posted: January 23, 2023

Source: MAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.

Tufts Scientists Develop Biopolymer-Based Sensors That Glow When Dangers Are Present And Can Be Printed On Almost Anything

MEDFORD, Mass. — January 17, 2023 — Researchers at Tufts School of Engineering have developed a way to detect bacteria, toxins, and dangerous chemicals in the environment using a biopolymer sensor that can be printed like ink on a wide range of materials, including wearable items such as gloves, masks, or everyday clothing.

Using an enzyme similar to that found in fireflies, the sensor glows when it detects these otherwise invisible threats. The new technology is described in the journal Advanced Materials.

The biopolymer sensor, which is based on computationally designed proteins and silk fibroin extracted from the cocoons of the silk moth Bombyx Mori, can also be embedded in films, sponges, and filters, or molded like plastic to sample and detect airborne and waterborne dangers, or used to signal infections or even cancer in our bodies.

The researchers demonstrated how the sensor emits light within minutes as it detects the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID, anti-hepatitis B virus antibodies, the food-borne toxin botulinum neurotoxin B, or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), an indicator of the presence of breast cancer.

Currently, the sensors require a quick spray with a non-toxic chemical after being potentially exposed to bacteria, toxins, and dangerous chemicals. If the target is present, then the sensor generates light. The intensity of emitted light provides a quantitative measure of the concentration of the target.

“The combination of lab-designed proteins and silk is a sensor platform that can be adapted to detect a wide range of chemical and biological agents with a high degree of specificity and sensitivity,” said Fiorenzo Omenetto, Frank C. Doble Professor of Engineering and director of the Tufts Silklab, where the bio-responsive materials were developed. “For example, SARS-CoV-2 and anti-hepatitis B antibodies can be measured at levels that approach at-home assays.”

The sensing element is modular, so developers can swap in newly designed proteins to capture specific pathogens or molecules to measure, while the light emitting mechanism remains the same. “Using the sensor, we can pick up trace levels of airborne SARS-CoV-2, or we can imagine modifying it to adapt to whatever the next public health threat might be,” Omenetto said.

He noted that, although it’s in a conceptual stage, the application to detect breast cancer is particularly interesting. His team created a proof-of-concept silicone bra pad that when worn can absorb secreted fluid, report the levels of HER2 hormone, and provide an indication whether breast cancer may be present.

“While further development will be required to improve and clinically validate the assay, the opportunity for such diagnostics in everyday garments is certainly compelling,” Omenetto said.

The sensors can assume a seemingly endless variety of forms. To demonstrate this, the research team created viral sensing drones in which their fuselage was embedded with the sensor material.  During flight, the propellers direct airflow through the porous body of the drone, which can be examined after landing. The drones, which in the example reacted to airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, could enable monitoring environments from a remote, safe distance.

Lock and Key Mechanism

The active component of the biopolymer sensor, which was developed by David Baker, Henrietta and Aubrey Davis Endowed Professor in Biochemistry at the Institute for Protein Design at the University of Washington, is a molecular switch made of proteins that act like lock and key, but with a cover.

When a virus, toxin, or other target molecule comes near, it binds to the switch and opens the cover. Another part of the switch—a molecular key—can then fit into the lock, and the combination forms a complete luciferase enzyme, similar to the enzyme that lights up fireflies and glowworms. The more virus, toxin, or other chemical that binds to the sensor, the brighter the glow.

The molecular glow-switch is embedded in a mixture of protein that is derived from silk cocoons, called silk fibroin. The silk fibroin is the inactive component of the biopolymer sensor, but has unique features, including the ability to be processed and manufactured using safe, water-based methods, and a remarkable versatility to be fabricated into different materials, such as films, sponges, textiles, or dispersed onto surfaces through an inkjet printer. Additionally, the silk fibroin stabilizes the molecular glow-switch and greatly extends its shelf life.

These biopolymer sensors are a big leap from other approaches to measuring pathogens or chemicals in the environment, which often rely on biological components that degrade quickly and require careful storage. The sensors also do not depend on electronic components that can be difficult to integrate into flexible wearable materials.

Extended Shelf Life

The Tufts researchers tested the shelf life of materials embedded with SARS-CoV-2 sensors after storing them at 60 degrees Celsius for four months and found very little change in performance. The breast cancer sensor shaped into a sponge was kept on the shelf at room temperature for one year, and still performed near its original sensitivity.

“This means we can manufacture, distribute, and store these sensing interfaces for long periods of time without losing their sensitivity or accuracy and without the need for refrigerated storage, which is remarkable due to the fact that they are made of protein,” said Luciana d’Amone, a graduate student in Omenetto’s lab who co-led the project with Giusy Matzeu, a research professor at Tufts’ Silklab.

This approach could make sensors widely available in different formats. “For example, you could make surgical masks capable of detecting pathogens, package them in boxes, and use them over time just like conventional masks,” said d’Amone. “We also showed that you can print the sensor inside food packaging to track spoilage and toxins. You can modify so many products that we use every day to include sensing, and store and use them as you normally would.”

The Tufts research team envisions applications for the biopolymer sensors ranging from personal and patient monitoring and infection control in health-care settings to environmental sensing in home, workplace, military, and disaster settings.

“Coming up with product concepts that could end up everywhere in our lives is a common theme for the SilkLab,” said Bernard Arulanandam, vice provost for research at Tufts, noting that SilkLab has developed everything from coatings to increase produce shelf life, to nonstick surfaces, artificial leather, and even implantable medical devices that can safely dissolve over time. “SilkLab has been a non-stop engine of innovation here at Tufts.”

Posted: January 20, 2023

Source: Tufts University – Mike Silver

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