DNA is the most valuable part of the human system. It allows cells to produce life-essential things such as proteins, amino acids, etc. The DNA alphabet contains four letters – G, C, A and T, which are split into pairs. To create the “first radically altered life form,” Romesberg and his lab tested hundreds of new candidate letters and their ability to selectively mate with each other. After fifteen years of hard work, two new letters were found; Romesberg calls them X and Y to make them easier to understand. Although still tested in tubes, this groundbreaking development unlocks enormous possibilities in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
In his lecture on semi-synthetic organisms, Floyd E. Romesberg delves into the conceptual and practical motivations behind the six-letter DNA sample. First, the new genetic makeup can serve as a basis for answering fundamental questions about human life. For example, “how perfectly created or evolved are we?” Second, and more importantly, a working semi-synthetic organism can greatly aid in protein production. The innovation that Romesberg is most enthusiastic about has to do with the application of protein medicines.
Since egg whites are difficult to make, having something available will certainly be a great advantage. Although still in the prototype phase, Floyd E. Romesberg’s laboratory and his biotech company Synthorx are hard at work to make the compound sustainable for the human organism. This includes things like making the protein safe and stable enough to be injected into a human and do its job.
During his lecture on semi-synthetic organisms, the scientist shows a photo depicting them. They are green because they generate proteins that glow green. The protein is identified as a common component of jellyfish. Floyd E. Romesberg’s laboratory continues its research to expand the genetic alphabet to other cells, including human cells.
