A Step Forward for Microbial Machines

A novel approach to genetic engineering could aid in the creation of fuel-producing bacteria–and edge closer to artificial life.
The researchers now aim to test the technique on other bacteria. “We want to start transferring this technology to organisms that are more relevant industrially or for biofuels,” says Vashee. For example, he says, genetic pathways from organisms that can break down environmental pollutants could be engineered into bacteria that could survive in harsh and contaminated environments, such as acidic ponds, and then used to clean up those areas.

The technology will likely find its way to Synthetic Genomics, a biofuels start-up founded by Venter that is developing genetically modified algae to produce fuels and other chemicals. The company announced a $300 million partnership with ExxonMobil last month.

Technology Review