Researchers at the University of California San Diego have made significant strides in synthetic biology by demonstrating that RNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for reading DNA, can accurately transcribe an expanded, eight-letter genetic alphabet. Traditionally, all known life on Earth uses a four-letter genetic code, but this research shows cells can handle synthetic genetic information, paving the way for custom-engineered biological systems that could create compounds not found in nature.
Key discoveries in the study involve high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy revealing how RNA polymerase from Escherichia coli recognizes two synthetic base pairs. Notably, the enzyme processes these new genetic letters using the same biochemical signals as natural DNA, ensuring accurate transcription. This breakthrough has potential applications in diagnostics and therapeutics, including identifying liver cancer cells.
The study’s findings are documented in two articles, which can be accessed via Nature Communications and PNAS. The research signifies a major advancement in understanding and utilizing synthetic genetic codes.
For further details, you can read the articles:
