Synthetic genes are man-made pieces of DNA. They are designed to be used in many different areas of science and technology. Here’s how they are created, step by step:
Designing the Gene: Scientists use computers to come up with a specific gene sequence. This sequence will create a certain protein. They make sure it works well in the organisms they want to use.
Making the DNA: After designing the gene, special machines help to create it. They put together small building blocks called nucleotides to form the DNA. Thanks to new technology, it’s now possible to make genes that are really long—over 2000 pieces!
Cloning the Gene: Next, the new gene is put into a "vector." A vector is like a delivery system, often a type of DNA called a plasmid, that can copy itself inside a living cell.
Introducing the Vector: This vector with the synthetic gene is then placed inside other living organisms, like bacteria, yeast, or even plants. Once inside, the gene can start working. For example, scientists can make E. coli bacteria produce insulin, which is an important medicine, at a rate of up to 20 grams per liter.
Synthetic genes have many uses. They help create important proteins for treatments, lead to genetically modified plants and animals, and support gene therapy. This type of therapy can help more than 200,000 people with genetic diseases around the world. The field of synthetic biology is growing fast and is expected to be worth $39 billion by 2026, showing how important it is becoming in biotechnology.
Synthetic genes are man-made pieces of DNA. They are designed to be used in many different areas of science and technology. Here’s how they are created, step by step:
Designing the Gene: Scientists use computers to come up with a specific gene sequence. This sequence will create a certain protein. They make sure it works well in the organisms they want to use.
Making the DNA: After designing the gene, special machines help to create it. They put together small building blocks called nucleotides to form the DNA. Thanks to new technology, it’s now possible to make genes that are really long—over 2000 pieces!
Cloning the Gene: Next, the new gene is put into a "vector." A vector is like a delivery system, often a type of DNA called a plasmid, that can copy itself inside a living cell.
Introducing the Vector: This vector with the synthetic gene is then placed inside other living organisms, like bacteria, yeast, or even plants. Once inside, the gene can start working. For example, scientists can make E. coli bacteria produce insulin, which is an important medicine, at a rate of up to 20 grams per liter.
Synthetic genes have many uses. They help create important proteins for treatments, lead to genetically modified plants and animals, and support gene therapy. This type of therapy can help more than 200,000 people with genetic diseases around the world. The field of synthetic biology is growing fast and is expected to be worth $39 billion by 2026, showing how important it is becoming in biotechnology.