Key facts
- Scientists have created synthetic cells, dubbed 'SpudCells', from chemical compounds and lab-made DNA.
- These cells can grow, replicate their genetic material, and divide to produce new generations.
- The SpudCells are not considered alive but represent a proof of principle for artificial life.
- The research aims to develop artificial organisms for producing drugs, foods, and fuels.
- The work also seeks to understand the minimum requirements for life and its origins.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed synthetic cells, named 'SpudCells', from chemical compounds and lab-made DNA, marking a significant step towards creating life from scratch. These tiny, quivering blobs are capable of feeding, growing, replicating their genetic material, and dividing to create subsequent generations, demonstrating a complete cell cycle previously only associated with natural living cells.
Led by Dr. Kate Adamala, the team built SpudCells from the bottom up, starting with liposomes and adding synthetic DNA. These cells require a nutrient-rich liquid containing vital chemicals like ATP and fuse with 'feeder' liposomes to obtain necessary molecules for protein synthesis. The SpudCell's genome contains instructions for self-replication and division. The researchers also demonstrated how cells with a genetic growth advantage could outcompete others, mimicking evolutionary principles.
While not considered alive, these SpudCells are seen as a potential 'chassis' for building more complex artificial life. They are entirely dependent on their external environment, lacking the self-sustaining capabilities of natural cells, such as independent protein machinery or waste management. The work is considered a major breakthrough by experts like Prof. Tom Ellis, who noted its utility in understanding life's minimum requirements and for testing biological circuits.
Looking ahead, Adamala and colleagues, including Prof. Drew Endy, are launching an institution called Biotic to further develop these synthetic cells into an 'operating system for life'. However, some, like philosopher Prof. John Dupré, question the practical advantages of these synthetic cells over modified bacteria for producing materials and whether they truly illuminate the nature of life, particularly its symbiotic aspects.