Flows of biological information can now be shaped by building ‘valves’ in DNA (the code for life), according to a study at the University of Bristol, published in the journal Essential communication.
The group focuses on how information encoded in DNA is read and in particular how these flows (of cellular processes) can be regulated by creating “valves” to regulate the flow from one region of DNA to another.
‘New biological organs that may be able to shape the flow of cellular processes along DNA (the code of life) have finally been developed by scientists.’
“Similar to valves that control the rate at which fluid flows through a pipe, these valves shape the flow of molecular processes along DNA. These flows allow the cell to make sense of the information stored in the genome. Their genes and the ability to control them allow us to reprogram their behavior in useful ways,” Thomas Gorochowski, senior author and research fellow of the Royal Society of Universities at the University of Bristol.
“Now that they’ve created these tools, a big question is how can they be used responsibly and fairly in the real world. Post-growth entrepreneurship provides the means useful approach to envisioning more intentional and holistic ways to put that technology at the service of people,” Mario Pansera, a distinguished researcher in the Post-Growth Innovation Lab at the University of Vigo, Spain.
Source: Medindia
