Researchers develop synthetic cell capable of growth and division
Researchers from the University of Minnesota have developed a synthetic cell capable of growth and division, a significant step in understanding the origins of life. The cell, initially a liposome, contained a protein-making system (PURE) and DNA. It "ate" by fusing with smaller feeder liposomes, producing a protein (alpha-hemolysin) that pulled in nutrients. The cell's DNA was copied by an enzyme (Phi29), and it was engineered to divide biologically by creating physical pressure from crowding proteins on its surface. This breakthrough demonstrates that cells can undergo selection, with faster-growing variants dominating the population.
Key Points
- Researchers have successfully developed a synthetic cell that can grow and divide.
- The synthetic cell, starting as a liposome, contained a protein-making system and DNA.
- It "ate" by fusing with feeder liposomes and produced a protein to pull in nutrients.
- The cell's DNA was copied, and it was engineered to divide biologically by creating physical pressure.
- The synthetic cells demonstrated the ability to undergo selection, with faster-growing variants dominating the population.
Exam Facts
- Developed by researchers from the University of Minnesota.
- The cell used a protein-making system called PURE.
- The DNA consisted of 90,000 base pairs.
- The protein produced for nutrient intake was alpha-hemolysin.
- The enzyme used for DNA copying was Phi29.
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