Synthetic Genome (broadcast Friday, January 25th, 2008)

A circular gene map of Mycoplasma genitalium. DOE

Researchers in the lab of genome pioneer Craig Venter have built an artificial copy of a bacterium's genome from scratch in the lab. Last year Venter's team transplanted a bacterial genome from one cell into another. The new work, reported this week in the journal Science, marks another step towards being able to create artificial life by inserting an entirely synthetic genome into a bacterial cell. Is it possible to create life from scratch? And is it right? Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests

J. Craig Venter
Founder and President
J. Craig Venter Institute
Rockville, Maryland

Related Links

• Nature: Genome stitched together by hand
• Economist: Artificial Life Nearly There
• Chicago Tribune: Researchers create synthetic genome

Segment produced by:Karin Vergoth

Elsewhere on Sciencefriday.com

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