Tag: Synthetic biology

Over 200 non-canonical amino acids have been genetically incorporated into proteins using advanced genetic code expansion technologies, proving it's possible to make new amino acids. This incredible ability to expand life's building blocks is now revolutionizing biotechnology, medicine, and materials science, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Over 200 million protein structures have been predicted by AI, showcasing the remarkable precision of modern protein design. This technological leap has propelled an important question into the spotlight: **What is artificial protein made of?** The answer lies in advanced methods ranging from synthetic genes and designer amino acid sequences to controlled cell cultures, all using the same fundamental building blocks as their natural counterparts.

According to philosopher Herbert A. Simon, 'artificial things are synthesized by human beings'. The question of what makes things artificial goes beyond simple creation, exploring the nuances of imitation, function, and intent that define human-made objects, systems, and life forms.

According to a review in *Microbial Cell Factories*, advances in genetic engineering and synthetic biology have enabled the creation of genetically modified (GMO) probiotics with enhanced therapeutic potential. This technology fundamentally alters or adds new genetic material to microorganisms to achieve specific, targeted health benefits beyond those of conventional probiotics.

Over 10,000 different proteins are at work inside every cell, performing a vast range of tasks to sustain life. Yet, this begs a fundamental question: could we exist without proteins, or are they an absolute requirement for all known life? This article delves into why these biomolecules are so essential and the implications of a world without them.

Synthetic proteins are artificially created proteins engineered for specific functions, a feat that is revolutionizing multiple industries. Unlike their natural counterparts, these human-designed molecules offer unparalleled precision and customizability, leading to groundbreaking applications in medicine, biotechnology, and sustainable materials.

According to the World Health Organization, biofortified crops can improve public health in areas with nutrient deficiencies. This advanced agricultural approach, alongside the use of genetically modified microorganisms, has led to the production of several vitamins that are genetically engineered.

According to a 2022 study, consumer perception of animal-free dairy is largely positive, with participants viewing it as a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional dairy. This growing interest is driven by a revolutionary process called precision fermentation, which utilizes microorganisms to produce the exact dairy proteins found in cow's milk.

The human body is home to trillions of microorganisms, yet a 2021 study revealed that inoculants often fail to establish or modify ecosystem functioning long-term, highlighting the difficulty in manipulating these communities. Successfully engineering microbiomes requires navigating a complex and interconnected web of technical, ecological, and ethical challenges.

An estimated two billion people worldwide suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, highlighting the critical role that diet and our own gut microbiome play in health. As a prominent member of our intestinal flora, *E. coli* is particularly noted for its ability to synthesize several key nutrients, leading to the important question: which vitamins are produced by *E. coli*?