Synthetic yeast code complete
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Australian researchers have completed the final chromosome of the world’s first synthetic yeast genome.
The achievement, which concludes the global Sc2.0 project, was led by Macquarie University researchers and published in Nature Communications.
The synthetic genome is set to provide a powerful platform for engineering biology, with applications ranging from sustainable manufacturing to medicines.
A synthetic yeast genome is a laboratory-designed version of a natural genome, created by replacing its natural DNA with fully synthesised genetic material. This allows scientists to precisely control genetic functions, creating yeast strains with enhanced abilities.
The project involved redesigning and constructing the genome of Saccharomyces cerevisia (baker's yeast), including 16 synthetic chromosomes and a novel tRNA neochromosome.
This groundbreaking effort establishes the first synthetic eukaryotic genome.
Using CRISPR D-BUGS, the team fixed flaws that had impaired yeast growth in stressful conditions, particularly when relying on glycerol as a carbon source.
They solved disruptions in essential genes such as CTR1, involved in copper metabolism, and GIP3, crucial for chromosome division, among the key issues.
Professor Sakkie Pretorius, Co-Chief Investigator and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) at Macquarie University, called the breakthrough a “landmark moment in synthetic biology.”
“This is the final piece of a puzzle that has occupied synthetic biology researchers for many years now,” Pretorius said.
Synthetic genomes are a revolutionary tool for designing organisms with tailored abilities.
By completing synXVI, the final chromosome in the synthetic yeast genome, scientists can now rapidly create strains optimised for industrial applications.
These include pharmaceuticals, sustainable materials, and other essential resources.
“By successfully constructing and debugging the final synthetic chromosome, we’ve helped complete a powerful platform for engineering biology that could revolutionise how we produce medicines, sustainable materials and other vital resources,” says Professor Ian Paulsen, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology.
“This discovery has important implications for future genome engineering projects, helping establish design principles that can be applied to other organisms,” said Dr Hugh Goold, a scientist at the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Macquarie University.
Scientists see this work as a foundation for engineering more resilient organisms across plant and mammalian genomes.
It is likely to assist in the fight against climate change, pandemics, and disruptions to food and medicine supply chains.
“The synthetic yeast genome represents a quantum leap in our ability to engineer biology,” said Dr Briardo Llorente, Chief Scientific Officer at the Australian Genome Foundry, which helped construct the chromosome.
“This achievement opens up exciting possibilities for developing more efficient and sustainable biomanufacturing processes.”
Macquarie University contributed 12 per cent of the Sc2.0 project, supported by the Australian Research Council and the NSW Government.
