In the early 2000s, scientists engineered a small herd of goats to produce spider silk proteins in their milk. By inserting silk-making genes into the goats’ DNA, they could collect the milk, extract the proteins, and spin them into strong, lightweight fibers. This breakthrough came from Nexia Biotechnologies and proved spider silk could be made without relying on spiders.

Today, the focus has shifted to producing silk through engineered bacteria, yeast, and plants, which are easier to scale. 

Companies like Bolt Threads and Kraig Biocraft Laboratories are developing spider-silk-inspired materials for clothing, medical uses, and sustainable alternatives to synthetic fabrics.

The goats started it. Microbes may finish it.