Efficient formation of single-copy human artificial chromosomes. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38513017/)

These scientists wanted to create artificial chromosomes that could be used in human cells. They found that using a large piece of DNA, about 750 kilobases in size, could help prevent the DNA from multiplying too much once it was put into the cells. This large piece of DNA contained different types of chromatin, which is the material that makes up chromosomes.

To introduce this large DNA construct into mammalian cells, the scientists used a method called yeast spheroplast fusion. This helped them deliver the artificial chromosome efficiently into the cells. By using this approach, the scientists were able to engineer chromosomes in human cells more accurately.

In simpler terms, the scientists figured out a better way to make artificial chromosomes that can be used in human cells by using a large piece of DNA and a special method to deliver it into the cells.

Gambogi CW., Birchak GJ., Mer E., Brown DM., Yankson G., Kixmoeller K., Gavade JN., Espinoza JL., Kashyap P., Dupont CL., Logsdon GA., Heun P., Glass JI., Black BE. Efficient formation of single-copy human artificial chromosomes. Science. 2024 Mar 22;383(6689):1344-1349. doi: 10.1126/science.adj3566. Epub 2024 Mar 21.