Incorporation of photosynthetically active algal chloroplasts in mammalian cells
Researchers have integrated chloroplasts from the red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae into mammalian cells, maintaining their structure and function, paving the way for artificially photosynthetic animal cells and biotechnological advancements.
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Researchers have successfully incorporated photosynthetically active chloroplasts from the red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae into cultured mammalian cells, marking a significant advancement in synthetic biology. This study aimed to explore the potential for creating artificially photosynthetic animal cells. The isolated chloroplasts were introduced into mammalian cells through co-cultivation, where they retained their thylakoid structure and were found in the cytoplasm, closely associated with mitochondria near the nucleus. Notably, the incorporated chloroplasts maintained the electron transport activity of photosystem II for at least two days post-incorporation. This research provides a foundational approach for future studies aimed at enhancing photosynthetic capabilities in animal cells, potentially leading to innovative applications in biotechnology and energy production.
- Researchers incorporated algal chloroplasts into mammalian cells for the first time.
- The chloroplasts retained their structure and function, maintaining photosystem II activity.
- This study represents a significant step towards creating artificially photosynthetic animal cells.
- The approach could have implications for biotechnology and renewable energy solutions.
- The research was conducted by a team from the University of Tokyo and RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science.
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