First cell-free system in which genetic information and metabolism work together
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology developed a cell-free system merging genetic information and metabolism. The innovative Pure system and Cetch cycle cooperate to produce enzymes and organic molecules autonomously, showing promise for sustainable synthetic biology and energy production.
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Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology have achieved a significant milestone by developing the first cell-free system where genetic information and metabolism cooperate. This innovative system combines a genetic network called Pure with a metabolic network known as the Cetch cycle. The Pure system produces metabolic enzymes, while the Cetch cycle utilizes CO2 to generate organic molecules, including essential amino acids like glycine. By interlinking these two levels, the researchers have created a self-sustaining synthetic biological system that can produce its own building blocks and drive processes autonomously. The system operates both in the test tube and in artificial cell-mimics, showcasing its versatility. While the system currently relies on external inputs for most components, it represents a crucial step towards developing sustainable systems that can regenerate their own components. The study, published in the journal Science, demonstrates the potential for future advancements in synthetic biology and sustainable energy production.
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1 comments"combines in vitro transcription-translation (TX-TL) with a carbon fixation cycle called CETCH (Crotonyl-CoA/Ethylmalonyl-CoA/Hydroxybutyryl-CoA)"
They linked a metabolic pathway that converts CO2 into organic molecules ie CETCH with a TX-TL system that can synthesize proteins. The system can partially self-regenerate by producing missing enzymes needed for the CETCH cycle.
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