Scientists Create Synthesized DNA Bases 125
Iddo Genuth writes to tell us that researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego have created two artificial DNA bases in an effort to "expand biology's potential." "In the future, [chemist Floyd] Romesberg envisions manipulating the genetic code of bacteria in order to assemble better drugs or even man-made proteins. Until now, the bases only work in bacteria, so human augmentation is currently not possible. Another option is to use alpha and beta to help construct nanomachines to be used for drug delivery. 'This is like jumping from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age,' Romesberg says. 'It takes time to figure out how best to use metal.'" Update 18:10 GMT by SM: Roger writes to share the NewScientist link with a bit more information. There is also the original release text for consideration.
Re:These are bases not amino acids (Score:5, Funny)
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:3, Funny)
Can we get back our Vitamin C gene again? I would love being able to eat less fruit... Scurvy sucks.
Apparently a war has already been delcared on Scurvy, and it appears to almost be won [internetwks.com]
Re:I for one... (Score:5, Funny)
The Island of Dr. Moreau called; they want their genetic manipulation with unintended consequences back. I told the caller to take a number.
In the brave new world of patented genetics ... (Score:2, Funny)
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:4, Funny)
Can we get back our Vitamin C gene again? I would love being able to eat less fruit... Scurvy sucks.
Have you ever tried coconut rum and fresh OJ? You'll never bitch about drinking your fruits again.
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:4, Funny)
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:3, Funny)
Pretty reckless with your precious fluilds, there, buddy.
I only drink grain alcohol and rain water.
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:1, Funny)
dude, calm down man.
Re:I want my Vitamin C! (Score:3, Funny)
Nicknames are meaningless. The big giveaway that you're a girl was that you drink Rieslings.
That shit's for ladies and, uh, whoever plays one on the Internet.