Genetically Modified Bacteria Became Efficient Sugar Producers

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/10/131017080348.htm

October 17, 2013

Recently rare natural sugars are widely used in consumer products as well research for anti-cancer and antiviral medicines. These rare sugars are very difficult to find and cannot be taken directly from nature. This is why their production has been increasingly expensive. However, recently a study showed that these rare sugars can be produced more efficiently and for a much cheaper price using genetically modified bacteria.

"We added certain genes to the bacteria, making them produce the enzymes that we wanted, and with their help, the desired rare sugars. The results were promising. The production of xylitol was considerably more efficient than what has previously been achieved by using bacteria, and L-xylose was manufactured for the first time without large amounts of by-products. Compared with chemical synthesis, bacteria proved to be significantly better in the production of l-xylulose and l-xylose," said Anne Usvalampi, the researcher who made the initial finding and study. Usvalampi noted that although the process of genetic engineering seems simple, things do not always go like one would expect. In spite of this, she is confident that there will be better and more uses for these rare sugars in the future, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. There has already been proof that mannose, a rare sugar, can be used in the treatment of certain wounds and infections. 

I believe that although this may seem like a small accomplishment in the field of science, small steps like these are what will eventually lead to more profound discoveries. Also, this shows the application of genetic engineering and how it can have positive effects as well. Many people have a negative view of genetic engineering because it seems unethical and unnatural, however there are certainly positive sides to it as well, especially in the case of biomedical engineering. When these genetically modified organisms are contained and isolated, they are unable to effect other population and ecosystems. This article demonstrates the possible benefits of genetic engineering.