Replicating Life Itself

Summary of "Artificial cells act like the real thing" by Weizmann Institute of Science

According to the Weizmann Institute of Science, their scientists have created a synthetic system of cells that simulates real cell behavior in multiple ways. Using a biochip with tiny chambers, the scientists placed artificial cells in each section and then attached skinny tubes to each individual cell. This process eventually developed a grid of cells that were able to cooperate with each other by communicating and transporting biological material between one another, just like actual cells. The scientists achieved this by encrypting DNA within the cells to perform basic cellular actions and functions. This is very exciting for biologists because they will be able to study cells more closely than ever because they will be within a controlled system. As stated by PhD student Eyal Karzbrun of the Weizmann Institute of Science, " The artificial cell system, in which we can control the genetic content and protein dilution times, allows us to study the relation between gene network design and the emerging protein dynamics." Not only will this discovery benefit biology though, but also these artificial cells may assist in the creation of new biological substances in the future (Weizmann Institute of Science, 2014).

Based on the success of this experiment, I believe synthetic cells offer great potential to revolutionize the future of biology and technology research. I find the fact that scientists today are able to create such minuscule machines with precision and accuracy is very impressive and speaks volumes about what science is able to accomplish. Also, since there is a wide range of flexibility and customization with this technology, we may see more advanced and specialized medicines, chemicals, and enzymes soon. I think that what scientists currently know about cells will be greatly expanded upon and perhaps altered as biologists flock to study this cell system. I am anxious to see what this achievement will accomplish and teach us in the future.

Weizmann Institute of Science. (2014, August 18). Artificial cells act like the real thing. ScienceDaily. Retrieved September 8, 2014 from
www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140818095027.htm