Synthetic Cells That Feed, Grow, and Reproduce Created by University of Minnesota Team

A research team, spearheaded by synthetic biologist Kate Adamala at the University of Minnesota, has created artificial cells known as SpudCells, capable of feeding, growing, reproducing, and competing for resources. This study, which has not yet undergone peer review, was shared on bioRxiv on July 2. Constructed from water-filled spheres encased in oily membranes, these cells incorporate DNA from both a virus and Escherichia coli. SpudCells utilize ATP, merge with feeder liposomes, and replicate through a membrane-splitting process. Over five generations, mutant SpudCells surpassed the original cells, demonstrating basic evolutionary traits. Nevertheless, they depend on E. coli ribosomes, which deteriorate after five to ten generations. Critics warn against assuming the arrival of fully synthetic cells is near. Adamala, alongside Drew Endy, co-founded Biotic to further this research.