In Japan, Jonathan Latham reports that researchers have discovered that standard methods of animal and plant gene-editing introduce DNA from unexpected sources. Inadvertently incorporated into the genomes of their edited mouse cells they found DNA from the E.coli genome (a bacterium) and from the cow genome, along with goat DNA.The researchers traced this adventitious presence to contaminants of standard components of the gene-editing process, such as cell culture media. The discovery suggests not only that edited organisms may acquire random foreign DNA, but that present methods of gene-editing can transmit genetic elements, viruses, and other pathogenic agents between species. These findings therefore have very important implications for biosecurity and for the regulation of gene-editing.
Latest article
History Channel “Ax Man” Buckin’ Billy Ray Smith endorses soy-based chainsaw oil
In Maryland, U.S. Soy and Stanley Black & Decker outdoor brand DEWALT have developed soy-based Bar & Chain Biodegradable Oil for chainsaws and other...
Meatable achieves “cell to sausage” in just 4 days
In the Netherlands, Meatable has reached an important milestone in its efforts to produce cultivated meat at scale—the transformation of pluripotent stem cells into...
Reformation launches castor oil swimwear line
In Los Angeles, popular clothing brand Reformation has released a new swimwear line that emphasizes the use “planet-friendly,” biobased materials.
The company tapped Italy-based...