Trimming the genomic fat: minimising and re-functionalising genomes using synthetic biology

Xin Xu (), Felix Meier, Benjamin A. Blount, Isak S. Pretorius, Tom Ellis, Ian T. Paulsen and Thomas C. Williams ()
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Xin Xu: Macquarie University
Felix Meier: Macquarie University
Benjamin A. Blount: University of Nottingham
Isak S. Pretorius: Macquarie University
Tom Ellis: Imperial College London
Ian T. Paulsen: Macquarie University
Thomas C. Williams: Macquarie University

Nature Communications, 2023, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Naturally evolved organisms typically have large genomes that enable their survival and growth under various conditions. However, the complexity of genomes often precludes our complete understanding of them, and limits the success of biotechnological designs. In contrast, minimal genomes have reduced complexity and therefore improved engineerability, increased biosynthetic capacity through the removal of unnecessary genetic elements, and less recalcitrance to complete characterisation. Here, we review the past and current genome minimisation and re-functionalisation efforts, with an emphasis on the latest advances facilitated by synthetic genomics, and provide a critical appraisal of their potential for industrial applications.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37748-7

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