To do this, the authors changed the meaning of two codons – the units in which genetic information is stored in DNA. As a result, bacteria began to use other amino acids for protein synthesis. This caused viruses to be copied inside the cell and not transmitted to the cell.
In addition, the resulting “genetic firewall” prevents the accidental transfer of transgenic DNA both inside and outside the cell. This is crucial for the safe use of GMOs and the prevention of “gene leakage” into the environment.
This discovery could have broad applications in biotechnology and medicine. It is possible to create cells completely insensitive to viruses, and this will help fight infections.
Source: Ferra
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