With 473 genes Syn3.0 is the simplest self-replicating cell known and could be basis for new organisms designed to make new antibiotics,fuels and drugsGeneticists contain established the minimum needed for life. They contain designed and created a synthetic cell which can survive and replicate with just 473 genes. Humans and fruit flies contain more than 20000 genes each. The finding is a landmark in biological understanding. It could illuminate the mysterious sage of life’s evolution in the primal oceans more than three billion years ago. It could provide the basis for a new generation of made-to-order organisms designed specifically to produce new antibiotics, new fuels and new drugs. And it is the climax of decades of theory and experiment. Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com