Dataset on the synthesis and physicochemical characterization of blank and curcumin encapsulated sericin nanoparticles obtained from Philosamia ricini silkworm cocoons

The dataset presents the synthesis and physicochemical characterization of blank and curcumin encapsulated sericin protein nanoparticles obtained from Philosamia ricini (also known as Ahimsa silk or Peace silk or Eri). Reports on application of sericin protein obtained from P. ricini are scanty at best. Sericin was extracted from the cocoons by high temperature and high pressure method. Synthesis of sericin nanoparticles was carried out by desolvation method using acetone as the desolvating agent. Curcumin was used as a hydrophobic model drug and was encapsulated into the sericin nanoparticles. Physicochemical characterization of the blank and curcumin encapsulated sericin nanoparticles were carried out by different instrumental analyses. The size and surface charges of sericin nanoparticles changed with the variation of applied sericin concentration. Encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of the encapsulated sericin nanoparticles showed variation with curcumin concentration. The obtained data indicated the applicative potentials of sericin protein extracted from Philosamia ricini silkworm cocoons.