Researchers create artificial, modifiable cells with programmable DNA [Video]

Researchers at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill have successfully engineered functional artificial cells in the lab which behave like living cells.

Ronit Freeman and her team have revealed their success in manipulating DNA and proteins, which are fundamental components of life, to engineer artificial cells that closely resemble those found in the human body.

As per Freeman, the synthetic cells were stable even at 122° Fahrenheit (50° Celsius). This opens up the “possibility of manufacturing cells with extraordinary capabilities in environments normally unsuitable to human life.”

Instead of creating materials that are made to last, Freeman says their materials are made to task — perform a specific function and then modify themselves to serve a new function. 

This achievement holds significant promise for …