Submitted by Vicky Yee K Reid on Tue, 07/11/2023 - 13:39
Researchers from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) have made a significant advancement in the area of synthetic biology, unveiling a novel method to design synthetic cells using DNA building blocks. This pioneering work promises to reshape our understanding and capabilities within the field.
Led by Dr Lorenzo Di Michele, first author Layla Malouf and the research team designed unique DNA nanostructures that self-assemble into complex sub-compartments and respond to specific inputs. These structures resemble living cells in both appearance and functionality, containing multiple spatially organised organelles which can host reactions similar to some of those found in living cells.