Please note that this article contains affiliate links. For the first time in history, scientists have successfully created a synthetic eukaryotic genome. By reconstructing the genomes of yeast cells, researchers have developed a more robust strain of yeast that produces increased spores, potentially leading to a significant increase in food production on a larger scale. This advancement in synthetic genome technology holds the promise of enhancing sustainable manufacturing processes that utilize eukaryotic bacteria more effectively.
While the idea of creating synthetic life from scratch remains a concept found in science fiction, the reality of synthetic genomes is now within reach. Led by synthetic biologist Hugh Goold from Macquarie University in Australia, a team of researchers has achieved the creation of the first synthetic eukaryotic genome for a type of yeast. Previous experiments had focused on prokaryotes, which are single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus, but a complete synthetic eukaryotic genome had not been reconstructed before for such organisms, which possess a nucleus and specialized organelles.
This breakthrough in synthetic genome technology allows for the customization of life forms to enhance specific traits. As part of the Sc2.0 Project, researchers redesigned and reconstructed the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to increase spore production and prevent mutations, a common issue in this yeast strain. Over a decade of research culminated in the successful reconstruction of the yeast’s genome. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as brewer’s yeast, has a rich history of use in brewing, winemaking, and baking. By reconstructing its genome, researchers aimed to equip the yeast with traits that enable disease resistance, adaptation to climate change, and improved food production while ensuring sustainability.
To create a specific synthetic chromosome within the synthetic genome, Goold utilized multiple strains of S. cerevisiae with synthetic DNA fragments already integrated. Through a meticulous process of backcrossing, which involves mating genetically diverse parent cells to produce hybrid offspring, the research team identified and isolated desirable characteristics. Despite encountering growth issues and mutations in the strain with the synthetic chromosome, further backcrossing enabled the researchers to pinpoint and address problematic areas. Errors in genetic marker placement were identified as the main cause of disruptions in yeast cell function within the synthetic chromosome.
To rectify these genetic irregularities, the team employed advanced gene-editing tools like CRISPR D-BUGS to target and correct specific areas of the genome. By enhancing yeast growth and resilience, the researchers achieved successful cultivation of the yeast on glycerol as a carbon source, enabling efficient carbon absorption at specific temperatures.
One segment of the genome was identified as the root of a copper deficiency issue, which was promptly resolved by introducing copper sulfate into the glycerol solution. Despite encountering some hiccups along the way, this cutting-edge technology presents a wealth of prospects beyond just enhancing crop production. By leveraging eukaryotic microbes with established roles in sustainable manufacturing processes, there exists the potential for fine-tuning them to operate with even greater efficiency. The researchers highlighted the remarkable capabilities of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the realm of constructing innovative chromosome libraries, such as neochromosomes and genomes that can be subsequently integrated into cells to engineer bespoke life forms tailored to meet the needs of humanity. Looking ahead, the tantalizing possibility of crafting artificial mammalian genomes looms on the horizon. However, at present, the versatility and promise offered by a single yeast strain in unlocking a multitude of avenues for exploration are truly remarkable.
