A partially self-regenerating synthetic cell

This paper demonstrates partial molecular self-regeneration in a synthetic cell. A minimal transcription-translation system within microfluidic reactors regenerates essential protein components from DNA templates, sustaining synthesis activity for over a day. Optimizing resource allocation and minimizing resource competition are crucial for robust function. The study achieves simultaneous regeneration of multiple proteins by determining required DNA ratios, providing a framework for developing a self-replicating synthetic cell.

Barbora Lavickova, Nadanai Laohakunakorn, Sebastian J. Maerkl