Researchers have found that microplastics, plastic particles less than 5mm in diameter, are ubiquitous in the environment. While there is growing concern about their impact on human health, a recent analysis suggests that commonly cited statistics about plastic consumption are often unverified. New evidence suggests that microplastic exposure may be linked to increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Meanwhile, researchers are working to find ways to reduce plastic pollution at its source. A recent breakthrough by a team at the University of Waterloo has engineered bacteria to produce an enzyme that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common plastic found in clothing and food containers. The enzyme, PETase, can chemically snip apart PET’s polymer chains, degrading the plastic into smaller molecules. While the results are promising, the team notes that scaling up this approach poses challenges, including cost, efficiency, and biocontainment. Some experts are optimistic about the potential of this technology to target plastic degradation in wastewater treatment plants, while others are more skeptical, calling for a multi-faceted approach to addressing the plastic pollution crisis.
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MIT scientists develop innovative trick to safeguard microorganisms from withstanding extreme environments
MIT researchers have developed a new method to make microbes, such as bacteria and yeast, more resilient and able to withstand extreme conditions, including high temperatures, radiation, and industrial processing. The team, led by Giovanni Traverso and Miguel Jimenez, used a “generally regarded as safe” list of compounds to create formulations that stabilized several types of microbes. They found that some of these formulations could withstand extreme conditions, including being stored at room temperature for 30 days, and even in space. The researchers also tested the efficacy of their formulations, finding that some microbes maintained their function after exposure to stressors. For example, a formulation of E. coli Nissle 1917 could inhibit the growth of Shigella flexneri, a bacteria that causes diarrhea. The team’s work has implications for a range of fields, including medicine, agriculture, and space exploration. Camilla Urbaniak, a research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, notes that the approach could be used to promote sustainable food production in space or to maintain astronaut health.
Unraveling the Mechanisms of Polyethylene Terephthalate Biodegradation by Genetically Engineered Microorganisms: A Review of Current Scientific Understanding
The production of plastics, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET), has been increasing rapidly, with annual production reaching 348 million metric tons in 2017. However, this has led to a significant problem of plastic waste accumulation in the environment, with plastics never fully decomposing and breaking down into microplastics. Microplastics have been found in the Arctic, Antarctica, and even in rain in protected areas, and are extremely dangerous to marine and seacoast animals. It is estimated that over 800 animal species are affected by plastic waste, and around 90% of seabirds ingest plastic. Additionally, microplastics have been found in zooplankton and phytoplankton, which are consumed by organisms from higher levels of the food chain.
To address this issue, several methods have been proposed for degrading PET, including mechanical and chemical methods, as well as biological methods involving enzymes and microorganisms. However, these methods have limitations, including low thermal stability and the need for high temperatures and catalysts. Therefore, further research is needed to develop more effective and sustainable methods for degrading PET and preventing plastic waste accumulation.
Understanding the complex issues surrounding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): weighing the benefits and risks, exploring the ethical implications, and examining the heated debate that surrounds their role in modern agriculture.
Selective breeding techniques have been used to alter plant genetics for thousands of years. With the advent of genetic engineering, scientists can now introduce genes from one species into another to create genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The process involves identifying the desired trait, copying the gene, inserting it into the target plant, growing the new plant, and testing for safety and effectiveness. GMO crops have been developed to be insect-resistant, drought-tolerant, and have other desirable traits. Many countries allow GMO crops to be grown and used as food, but some countries and individuals are concerned about the safety and environmental impact of GMOs. Proponents argue that GMOs can increase crop yields, reduce the need for pesticides, and help alleviate world hunger. Opponents argue that GMOs have not been proven safe for human consumption, can lead to the introduction of toxins and allergens, and harm the environment by promoting the use of toxic herbicides and pesticides. There are ongoing debates about the regulation and labeling of GMOs, as well as the long-term effects of their consumption.
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USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Seeks Public Input on Proposed Regulation of Genetically Modified Microorganisms
The US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has released a Request for Information (RFI) to solicit public comment on potential options to streamline and reduce regulatory burden for modified microbes. The RFI aims to obtain feedback on pathways to commercialization and potential changes to the regulatory framework for assessing the plant pest risk of modified microorganisms. APHIS is seeking input on the following:
* New or emerging categories of biotechnology products relevant to modified microorganisms
* Expertise and resources needed to evaluate plant pest risk
* Clarity and efficiency of regulations governing modified microorganisms
* Key elements of a regulatory framework for assessing plant pest risk
* Biological features of microorganisms to consider when determining plant pest risk
* Criteria for assessing plant pest risk
* Criteria for regulating microorganisms with multiple uses
* Potential for risk-based exemptions for certain types of microorganisms
* Examples of modified microorganisms that should be exempt from regulation and evidence to support these exemptions
The RFI is open for public comment until September 3, 2024. The purpose of the RFI is to identify potential criteria and mechanisms for risk-based deregulation, develop a regulatory framework, and identify non-regulatory solutions to improve coordination with the EPA and APHIS’s Plant Protection and Quarantine. This RFI provides an opportunity for developers and stakeholders to shape a clearer and more streamlined regulatory pathway for modified microbes, promoting innovation in agricultural industries.
Here’s a rewritten version of the headline: Breakthrough in Biotechnology: Scientists Combine Bacteria and Yeast to Revolutionize Energy and Pharmaceutical Industries
Scientists have made a breakthrough in synthetic biology by engineering a hybrid of bacteria and yeast that can perform photosynthesis, generate energy, and grow without relying on traditional carbon sources. The creation of these hybrids, which are called cyanobacteria-yeast chimeras, is significant as it opens up new pathways for non-petroleum-based energy production and synthetic biology applications. The team, led by University of Illinois professor Angad Mehta, incorporated photosynthetic cyanobacteria into yeast cells, allowing the hybrids to produce sugars and energy from CO2. This innovation has paved the way for the creation of organisms that can thrive on CO2, producing valuable compounds like limonene, a hydrocarbon with significant commercial value. The team plans to continue refining the process to produce more complex compounds and explore ways to scale it up for commercial viability. This breakthrough also has the potential to help solve some of biology’s greatest mysteries by replicating evolutionary processes within the lab. The researchers are excited about the possibilities and potential applications of this technology, which could lead to a new era of sustainable energy production and biotechnology.
The benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are a topic of ongoing debate and research, with some experts arguing that the potential advantages of GMOs outweigh the potential risks, while others emphasize the need for further study and regulation.
Here is a 200-word summary of the article on GMOs:
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been the subject of ongoing debate, with some people advocating for their ability to produce healthier and more sustainable food, while others express concern about their impact on human health and the environment. The US uses a significant amount of GMOs, with 94% of soybeans, 96% of cotton, and 92% of corn being GMO. Proponents of GMOs argue that they can reduce pesticide use, increase nutritional value, and lower food costs. For example, Golden Rice can provide 50% of a person’s daily Vitamin A needs, and GMO crops can be engineered to be more resistant to pests and diseases. On the other hand, critics argue that GMOs could trigger allergic reactions, increase antibiotic resistance, and have unknown long-term health implications. While the FDA and American Cancer Society reassure that currently available GMO foods are not harmful to human health, the lack of evidence on long-term effects is a cause for concern. The debate surrounding GMOs remains ongoing, with both sides presenting valid arguments that require further research and discussion.
Microrganisms genetically modified to digest plastic could be the unlikely heroes in the fight to remove plastic waste from our oceans.
The “white tide” of plastic pellets, also known as nurdles, has been causing concern in Spain’s northern coast as they have been dumped by a Dutch-registered ship. Nurdles are a type of tiny plastic bead used to make a variety of plastics, and they can harm the environment and marine life. According to the Environmental Investigation Agency, these beads are a mixture of chemicals and can change the mix of microbial life in seawater, disrupting the food chain. Plastic waste is a significant problem, with over 171 trillion pieces of plastic floating in the oceans, and it is expected to triple by 2040. To combat this issue, genetic engineering can be used to create bacteria that can break down plastic and produce useful compounds. For example, E. coli bacteria can be engineered to digest polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics and convert them into a high-value industrial compound. However, there are regulatory barriers to implementing this technology, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) restrictive approach, which may slow down the development of this technology.
Microorganisms engineered for breakdown could degrade hard-to-recycle nylon found in clothing.
A team of scientists has developed a genetically modified bacterium that can break down nylon and turn it into useful products. Nylon, a widely used plastic, has a low recycling rate, with most ending up in landfills. Researchers used genetic engineering and laboratory evolution to create a strain of the bacterium Pseudomonas putida that can break down nylon compounds and convert them into biodegradable plastics. The bacteria can consume up to 80-90% of the pre-treated plastic, but more work is needed to increase the amount of useful product produced and to make the process commercially viable. The developers hope that this technology will encourage the collection and recycling of old fishing nets, clothing, and car parts, which are often made of heat-resistant plastics. With further modification, this could lead to a solution for recycling nylon and reducing plastic waste.
Managing Genetically Engineered Microorganisms for Release into the Environment
Microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, are ubiquitous and play crucial roles in ecosystems and human health. Synthetic biology has enabled the engineering of microbes with specific characteristics, opening up new possibilities for medicine, agriculture, and environmental management. However, this raises concerns about the potential risks of releasing engineered microbes into the environment. To address this, the Caltech Linde Policy Center has released a report with policy recommendations for safe and responsible research and use of engineered microbial technologies.
The report calls for a program to aid small developers in navigating the regulatory framework, creation of an environmental biotechnology regulation office, and infrastructure for evaluating engineered microbes in contained conditions. It also recommends a public repository of information on engineered microbes undergoing field trials, funding for basic research on the risks and benefits, and promoting early and regular interaction between regulators, developers, and the public.
The report aims to create a framework for safe and responsible research and use of engineered microbes, ensuring that their potential benefits are realized while minimizing risks to the environment and public health.
Here’s a rewritten version of the title without additional responses: Engineering Microbes for the Synthesis of Biopolymers: Harnessing Pathways, Genes, and Processes
The production of biopolymers from renewable carbon sources is a crucial step towards a circular economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the high cost of biopolymer production and the lack of suitable industrial processes hinder their widespread adoption. This special issue highlights the ongoing efforts to optimize biopolymer production through microbial fermentation, gene engineering, and process optimization.
Studies presented in this issue focus on the synthesis of poly(3-hydroxyalkanoates) (PHAs), poly(γ-glutamic acid) (γ-PGA), epothilone, and other biopolymers. Researchers used various strategies to improve biopolymer production, including altering regulatory circuits, optimizing gene expression, and modifying fermentation conditions.
The issue also highlights the importance of downstream processing and novel strategies for releasing intracellular biopolymers. Synthetic bacterial consortia are presented as a sustainable approach to produce PHAs from low-cost feedstocks. The use of CO2 as a carbon source and the production of alginate, a biopolymer with applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries, are also discussed.
Overall, this special issue demonstrates the ongoing efforts to develop cost-effective biopolymer production processes and highlights the potential of microbial biotechnology to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Microbes in controlled cultures can purify wastewater while simultaneously producing electricity
Researchers from Henan Normal University in China have developed a genetically- and nano-engineered form of the common bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) that can consume carbon-containing compounds in sewage and generate electricity. This breakthrough could revolutionize the field of microbial fuel cells, which aim to degrade contaminants and produce electricity simultaneously. The researchers used genetic engineering to enhance E. coli’s production of cytochrome c, a protein involved in cellular energy balance, and then coated the bacteria with polypyrrole, an electricity-conducting polymer, to enhance electricity transfer. The resulting microbial fuel cells showed a power output comparable to high-performance biofuel cells, with the E. coli consuming organic compounds faster and generating a more powerful electric current than other bacteria. The nanocoating had no impact on the bacteria’s viability or reproduction, allowing them to continue generating electricity as long as their food source lasted. This technology has the potential to provide a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment and energy production.
Microbes pioneer a new route to climate-friendly manufacturing, harnessing the power of carbon dioxide
RIKEN scientists have discovered a new microorganism that may help us understand the origins of life on Earth and how to improve microbial factories. The microorganism, an archaeon called Met12, was found in the deep-water-fed springs of northern California. It converts carbon dioxide into other chemicals, using a previously unknown metabolic pathway that may mimic the earliest forms of energy metabolism on Earth. This process could be used to produce biofuels and chemicals. The microbe thrives in an unusual environment with high levels of calcium, hydrogen, and methane gas, but lacking other essential elements. The discovery has practical implications for improving the efficiency of genetically engineered microbes used to produce biofuels and chemicals. It could also aid in carbon sequestration, a crucial strategy for slowing down climate change. The team is now searching for other extremophile organisms in unique environments, such as hot springs and underwater volcanoes. The discovery of Met12 and other such microorganisms could provide clues to the origins of life on Earth and elsewhere in the universe. The team’s research could lead to the development of new technologies and a better understanding of the diversity of microbial life.
Bio-engineered fauna, cyanobacteria, and microflora.
Here is a summarized version of the content to 200 words:
The use of genetically engineered animals, algae, and microorganisms is increasingly on the rise in field applications. However, whereas genetically modified food crops receive robust public discussions around benefits and risks, there are scarce public debate on GE livestock, fish, algae for biofuels, and microorganisms in fertilizers. These promises hold immense promise for improving agricultural yields, addressing environmental issues, and climate resilience. Concerns surrounding unintended impacts and ecological impacts must also be considered.
Research aims to bridge this knowledge gap by systematically surveying Transgressive Assessment (TA) institutions to understand husbandry, marketing, and consumption habits. Firms from across European institutions contribute Topical Reports examined for approaches utilized, key microorganisms/geneties addressed, researched results, and proposed solutions will be highlighted).
Genetically engineered microorganisms for environmental remediation and release
The articles discuss various aspects of environmental genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and the regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They highlight the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering in fields such as agriculture, medicine, and environmental remediation. The papers also explore the regulatory frameworks for GMOs in the United States and globally, including the Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology and the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) oversight of genetically engineered organisms.
Several articles discuss the development of genetically modified microorganisms for various applications, such as biofuels, bioproducts, and biopesticides. They also touch on the challenges and controversies surrounding the release of GMOs into the environment and the need for effective risk assessment and regulation.
The articles also cover the use of synthetic biology in areas like medicine, such as the development of genetically modified bacteria for cancer treatment and the creation of new biofuels. They also discuss the potential benefits and risks of genetically modified crops, including the potential for increased yields and disease resistance.
Overall, the articles provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of environmental genetic engineering and synthetic biology, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of these emerging fields.
Three US regulatory agencies collaborate to launch a new tool, empowering industries to navigate GMO regulations with greater ease.
The US FDA, EPA, and USDA have launched a new online tool to help companies understand the regulatory requirements for genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The tool, accessible on the Unified Website for Biotechnology Regulation, provides a starting point for researchers and developers to navigate the regulatory process for GMOs. The tool was developed in response to feedback from stakeholders, who identified regulatory ambiguities and inefficiencies within the Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology. The tool uses a series of prompts to provide information on regulatory requirements and the approval process across agencies. The agencies will continue to expand the tool’s utility and scope, and a built-in feedback function allows stakeholders to submit feedback directly to the agencies. The agencies are also working to increase transparency and public confidence in the biotechnology regulatory system, including aligning data requirements and exploring less burdensome pathways for commercializing genetically modified microbes.
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Harnessing the potential of engineered microorganisms as electrocatalysts to generate sustainable power from wastewater.
The articles discussed in this summary relate to various topics in the fields of environmental science, biotechnology, and materials science. One article discusses the planetary to regional boundaries for agricultural nitrogen pollution, highlighting the need for more effective management of nitrogen pollution. Another article explores the unintended consequences of water conservation on the use of treated municipal wastewater.
The articles also cover topics in biotechnology, including the production of advanced biofuels, microbial fuel cells, and biohybrid approaches to light-driven hydrogen production. Additionally, the articles discuss the development of new materials and catalysts for applications such as oxygen reduction reaction, fuel cells, and bioelectrocatalysis.
Several articles focus on the use of enzymes and microorganisms in biotechnology, including the engineering of synthetic microbial consortia for efficient conversion of lactate to electricity and the development of implantable biofuel cells. Other articles discuss the use of NMR spectroscopy and other techniques to study protein conformational ensembles and receptor core-induced conformational changes.
Overall, the articles highlight the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in addressing complex environmental and technological challenges.
Transforming our understanding of Deinococcus bacteria’s microbial pigments: Unveiling the secrets of their synthesis, engineering, and multifaceted biological functions.
The article discusses the importance of bacterial pigments, particularly carotenoids, in food production and processing. Carotenoids are a class of polyene compounds that are widely found in plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria. They not only give organisms bright colors but also possess various biological functions such as antioxidant activity, photoprotection, and immune regulation. The article focuses on the carotenoids produced by Deinococcus bacteria, which are extremophiles that can survive in extreme environments. These bacteria produce carotenoids as a defense mechanism against oxidative stress and radiation. The article reviews the physicochemical properties and applications of carotenoids, as well as the biosynthetic pathway and key enzymes involved in their production. It also discusses metabolic engineering techniques used to enhance carotenoid production in Deinococcus, including genetic engineering and modifications to culture conditions. The article highlights the potential of carotenoids as natural ingredients in food supplements and their importance in conferring stress resistance to Deinococcus bacteria.
Exploring the Potential of Valencene and its Feasibility of Production in Genetically Engineered Microorganisms Note: This rewritten version uses more formal language and adds more descriptive words, making it easier to understand for a wider audience.
Valencene is a carbobicyclic sesquiterpene with a sweet, fresh citrus, herb, and woody odor. It is commonly found in citrus fruits, medicinal plants, and can be naturally extracted from oranges, but its quality is often affected by unpredictable harvest conditions and weather. Recently, producing valencene through fermentation using renewable resources has gained attention. Biotechnology companies such as Isobionics and Evolva can produce high-purity valencene through sustainable fermentation, which was previously unavailable due to technological restrictions.
Valencene is synthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, involving multiple enzymes and steps. It can also be converted to nootkatone, a thermally stable and more valued compound. The production of valencene in microbes is a promising area of research, with various yeast strains and bacterial species used for its production.
The article reviews the biosynthesis of valencene, its effects on insect repellency and pharmacological activities, and its heterologous production in different hosts. The article also discusses the potential for future engineering directions to enhance valencene production in microbes. Overall, valencene is a valuable compound with a wide range of applications, and its production through fermentation is a promising area of research.
Bacteria genetically engineered to produce heat-resistant bioplastics for the first time.
Researchers in Korea have made a significant breakthrough in developing plastic-producing microbes as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. They have engineered bacteria to produce polymers with ring-like structures, enhancing rigidity and thermal stability. This achievement is a significant step towards mitigating climate change and the global plastic crisis. The researchers successfully designed a metabolic pathway for E. coli bacteria to produce the polymer, tolerating the accumulation of both the polymer and its precursors. The resulting polymer is biodegradable and has physical properties useful for biomedical applications. The breakthrough is the first-ever microbial production of aromatic and aliphatic polymers, which are commonly used in packaging and industrial applications. The team plans to scale up production and optimize the process to enable larger-scale commercialization. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing of bioplastics, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
Microorganisms can collaborate to identify prime numbers and vowels.
Scientists have successfully genetically engineered bacteria to function as simple computers, opening up new possibilities for technology. By combining different strains of bacteria, researchers from the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics in Kolkata, India, have created tiny biological computers that can solve problems in various ways. These “biocomputers” can be used to identify prime numbers, recognize vowels, and even calculate the maximum number of slices a pizza can be cut into. The researchers claim that these biocomputers have several advantages over traditional computer chips, including their small size and lower production costs. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, and more, as bacteria can be easily cultured and adapted to different environments. With their ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, biocomputers could potentially be used to monitor and respond to environmental changes, making them a promising innovation in the field of biotechnology.
Advancements in Microbial-Based Therapies for Acute Liver Failure Treatment
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a severe condition characterized by rapid liver damage and multi-organ failure. Despite treatment, mortality rates remain high, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. The gut-liver axis theory suggests that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in liver health and disease. Microbial therapeutics, including probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and precision medicines, have shown promise in managing liver diseases.
This review discusses the potential of microbial therapies in ALF, examining the mechanisms underlying their use in prevention, treatment, and prognosis. Probiotics alter the composition and behavior of gut bacteria, reducing gut dysbiosis and promoting beneficial bacteria. FMT transfers fecal microbiota from a healthy donor to a recipient, restoring the balance of gut microbiota. The link between gut microbiota and liver disease is complex, with gut bacteria producing bioactive compounds, metabolism, and immune responses affecting liver function.
Research highlights the importance of gut microbiota in ALF, with studies showing that changes in gut bacteria and metabolites are associated with liver injury and recovery. Studying the gut-liver axis can provide insights into the pathogenesis of ALF and identify new therapeutic targets. The review concludes that microbial therapies hold promise in managing ALF, and further research is needed to understand their mechanisms and efficacy in this condition.
Keying in on the potential of microbial biotechnology for sustainable production
Biomanufacturing, a process that uses microorganisms to produce industrially useful compounds from biomass, is being developed by Dr. Kohsuke Honda and his team at Osaka University, Japan. The aim is to replace fossil fuels with renewable resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the manufacturing sector. The team is exploring a broader approach, targeting the production of chemical precursors that can be used to create a wide range of products. They are using genetics to engineer microorganisms to produce key metabolites more quickly and abundantly. The team is also seeking to expand the repertoire of microbes that can be used for biomanufacturing, including extremophiles that can survive in harsh environments. To improve efficiency, they are working on genetic “switches” that allow microorganisms to switch from growth to production mode, and are using machine learning to engineer novel enzymes and proteins. The project has its roots in Japan’s historic fermentation industry, which dates back to the 19th century. Honda’s team believes that biomanufacturing can be a key component in creating a sustainable carbon cycle.
Microorganisms transform organic waste into valuable resources.
A new process has been developed to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic waste on the environment. The approach uses engineered bacteria, Pseudomonas putida, to break down various types of waste, including sugars, acids, and oils. A life cycle assessment found that this process could reduce the carbon footprint of waste management by up to 62% compared to traditional methods, and be more cost-effective by up to 37%. The bacteria’s adaptability allows it to process a mix of waste materials, making the system robust and reliable. The technology has been demonstrated through the production of two products: bioplastics, a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, and therapeutic proteins, such as human insulin analogues and interferon-alpha2a. This dual output highlights the versatility of the system, which could cater to both high-volume products and high-value applications.
Microbiologists successfully genetically modify bacteria to degrade PET plastic
Researchers at Rice University have developed a groundbreaking bioengineering method that can break down PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic, a common plastic used in packaging that takes centuries to decompose. Inspired by the adhesive properties of mussels, the scientists have engineered microorganisms that can stick to plastic surfaces and break them down. The innovation could revolutionize environmental cleanup efforts, which are currently slow and inefficient. The researchers used genetic code expansion technology to create bacteria enhanced with an amino acid found in mussels, which gives them a powerful adhesive quality. Once adhered to the PET plastic, the bacteria break down the plastic into smaller fragments using an enzyme designed to target the plastic. This method could be used in large-scale environmental cleanup efforts, and also has applications in preventing biofouling and medical use. The research offers new hope for reducing plastic pollution and could transform environmental cleanup efforts worldwide.
A microscopic mapping of the microbiome could uncover eco-friendly methods for extracting essential metals.
A team of researchers from Cornell University, led by Buz Barstow, has received a $2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to create a “microbe-mineral atlas” – a catalog of microorganisms and genes that interact with minerals. The goal is to use synthetic biology to develop genetically engineered microorganisms that can accelerate the extraction of critical metals, such as copper and nickel, from low-concentration minerals. The team will investigate how microbes interact with minerals and rocks, and assess how policies should be adapted to account for this emerging biotechnology. The project also aims to educate high school students about genetic engineering and make them more comfortable with the technology. The team consists of co-principal investigators from Cornell and Michigan State University, and is hopeful that the project will be renewed and expanded to include researchers from 11 universities in four countries. The research has the potential to provide a sustainable pathway for mining critical metals, which are essential for carbon-neutral renewable energy technologies.
Biotech organisms – a focus for the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is responsible for assessing the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the European Union. EFSA’s role is to provide scientific advice to the European Commission and EU Member States on the potential risks of GMOs to human and animal health, as well as the environment. EFSA evaluates the safety of new GMOs by considering factors such as molecular characterization, comparative analysis, toxicity, and environmental impact. The agency also responds to requests from the European Commission and the European Parliament on GMO-related issues.
To evaluate GMO applications, EFSA experts assess the potential long-term effects of GMOs on human health, animal health, and the environment. The agency also monitors the post-market performance of authorized GMOs through environmental monitoring and risk assessments. EFSA’s guidance documents provide detailed information on how to compile GMO application dossiers and the type of scientific data to include. The agency also publishes all comments and replies from stakeholders online, ensuring transparency in its evaluation process.
A game-changing discovery: genetic modification of bacteria to create microscopic factories for green energy production.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have made significant progress in developing a cost-effective and zero-carbon method of producing green hydrogen, a crucial step towards achieving net-zero emissions. The team used a synthetic biology approach to engineer a species of bacteria, Shewanella oneidensis, to become a “hydrogen nanoreactor” that splits water and produces hydrogen using sunlight. This breakthrough overcomes a critical challenge in green hydrogen production, which currently relies on expensive metals. The engineered bacteria can concentrate electrons, protons, and hydrogenase enzymes in a specific space, allowing for efficient hydrogen production. The system can be scaled up to produce “artificial leaves” that can be exposed to sunlight to produce hydrogen. This advance has the potential to revolutionize the production of green hydrogen, which could play a key role in decarbonizing industries such as aviation and shipping. The researchers believe that their biocatalyst can improve long-term economic viability and provide a sustainable source of hydrogen fuels.
A cutting-edge hybrid controller has the potential to maximize efficiency.
Researchers at Fujita Health University and Nara Institute of Science and Technology have developed a hybrid ‘in silico/in-cell’ controller (HISICC) to regulate the production of fatty acids in Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. The HISICC combines a computer-driven, model-based optimization controller with a feedback control mechanism engineered directly into the bacteria. This approach allows for the regulation of the key enzyme acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) to improve fatty acid yield and reduce losses due to process-model mismatches (PMMs). The team tested three different control strategies, including a traditional “no brakes” approach and two new approaches using the HISICC. The results showed that the HISICC approach achieved the highest fatty acid yield. The researchers believe that this technology has the potential to improve the production efficiency of fuels and important chemicals, reducing costs and environmental impact. The study was funded by the Next Generation Interdisciplinary Research Project and AMED. The authors declare no competing interests.
Using Edible Microorganism, We Can Naturally Break Down Plastic Debris
Scientists at the University of Waterloo have engineered bacteria found in wastewater treatment plants to break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, a common plastic found in various products. PET plastics take hundreds of years to degrade, and they break down into microplastics, which can enter the food chain and cause health problems. By introducing a new trait into these bacteria through a natural process called “bacterial sex,” researchers have enabled them to break down microplastics. The bacteria, like “biorobots,” can be programmed to clean up microplastics in wastewater treatment plants, reducing the risk of plastic pollution. This technology could also help address concerns about antibiotic resistance. The next step is to model how well the bacteria can transfer the new genetic information and degrade plastics under different environmental conditions. The long-term goal is to break down microplastics in wastewater treatment plants and potentially in oceans as well.
Innovative breakthrough by university researchers enables the conversion of waste into lifesaving insulin
A new study from the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology has proposed a novel method for converting mixed municipal waste into valuable bio-products. The researchers used the bacterium Pseudomonas putida to break down complex waste streams into bioplastics and therapeutic proteins. This approach has the potential to achieve a circular economy, where waste is reused and repurposed instead of discarded. The process involves pre-treating waste using enzymes, followed by a bioreactor containing engineered Pseudomonas putida. The bacteria convert the waste into useful products, such as bioplastics and therapeutic proteins.
The study found that this approach could reduce the carbon footprint of waste management by up to 62% compared to traditional methods, and be more cost-effective, with savings of up to 37%. The key to this success is the adaptability of Pseudomonas putida, which can metabolize a mix of sugars, acids, and oils derived from various waste materials. The researchers have already demonstrated the potential of this technology by producing bioplastics and therapeutic proteins, including human insulin analogues and a synthetic HEL4 nanobody. This innovation has the potential to transform the way we manage waste and could be integrated into municipal waste management systems in the future.
Modified Genes: A Breakthrough in Medicine, Research, and Biotechnology
Genetic modification of organisms (GMOs) has revolutionized biomedical research, pharmaceutical production, and environmental management. GMOs have enabled the creation of animal models for human diseases, production of complex pharmaceuticals, and development of “edible vaccines” that can be produced in plants. GMOs have also been used to create mosquitoes that can help prevent diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Additionally, gene therapy has been used to treat genetic disorders and cancer.
However, GMOs have also raised concerns about their safety and potential risks. Some people worry about the potential harm that GMOs could cause to human health and the environment. The European Union has implemented strict labeling laws for GM foods, while the United States has not. The use of GMOs in medicine and research has also sparked philosophical debates about the potential for “designer” children and extended human lifespan.
Overall, GMOs hold great potential for medical and environmental advances, but it is important to use this technology responsibly and with caution. Scientific panels have concluded that GM foods are safe, but more research and regulation are needed to ensure the responsible use of GMOs.