Effects of lugworm protease on the dyeing properties of protein fibers

Abstract A lugworm protease, Perinereis aibuhitensis , was used to improve the dyeing properties of protein fibers such as wool and silk. The optimal condition for the activity of the lugworm protease was about 40 °C at pH 7. The wool and silk were treated with the protease extracted from a lugworm and the K / S values of the dyed wool and silk were measured using a spectrophotometer in order to compare the dye uptake. The protease treatment enhanced the dyeing properties of protein fibers without severe changes in their mechanical properties. The surface appearances of protease-treated fibers were observed via microscopy.