Oct 31, 2017

10/31/2017: Spider silk, the latest fashion trend

These silk threads are mass produced by silkworms but based on the protein a spider uses to spin its web. Photo Courtesy of Kraig Biocraft Laboratories

(Markets Edition) Republicans are planning to turn their tax blueprint into an actual plan tomorrow, but not everyone is on board with it. On today's show, we'll recap some of the concerns key lawmakers and groups have. Republican Senator Susan Collins has pushed back against the removal of the estate tax rate, while the National Association of Home Builders has issue with the GOP's plan for the mortgage interest rate. Afterwards, we'll discuss Facebook's upcoming testimony in front of Congress as part of an investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. And finally, we'll discuss one of the latest fashion trends: spider silk for military uniforms.

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Spider silk, the newest fabric for military uniforms

by Marketplace Contributor

Oct 31, 2017

The silky strands made by spiders are strong and supple. Now, scientists in Michigan are using genetic engineering to reproduce spider silk for a wide range of uses, including military uniforms.

These silk threads are mass produced by silkworms but based on the protein a spider uses to spin its web.

Photo Courtesy of Kraig Biocraft Laboratories

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(Markets Edition) Republicans are planning to turn their tax blueprint into an actual plan tomorrow, but not everyone is on board with it. On today’s show, we’ll recap some of the concerns key lawmakers and groups have. Republican Senator Susan Collins has pushed back against the removal of the estate tax rate, while the National Association of Home Builders has issue with the GOP’s plan for the mortgage interest rate. Afterwards, we’ll discuss Facebook’s upcoming testimony in front of Congress as part of an investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. And finally, we’ll discuss one of the latest fashion trends: spider silk for military uniforms.