Researchers in Japan have successfully inserted energy-making chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing the cells to photosynthesize light for at least two days. This breakthrough challenges the previously held belief that combining chloroplasts with animal cells was impossible. The study showed that the chloroplasts continued to function within the animal cells, demonstrating photosynthetic action. This discovery could have significant implications for artificial tissue engineering, as it could provide a new way to supply oxygen and energy to tissues through light exposure and photosynthesis.
Some animals, such as giant clams, already benefit from a symbiotic relationship with algae, which contain chloroplasts and can photosynthesize light into food and oxygen. While animals do not naturally contain chloroplasts, the research team was able to successfully implant chloroplasts from red algae into cultured hamster cells. They used various imaging techniques to examine the structure of the chloroplasts within the cells and confirmed that photosynthetic electron transport was occurring. This groundbreaking research opens up new possibilities for creating “planimal” cells that can provide the beneficial features of plants to animals.
The team believes that this work could be valuable for cellular-tissue engineering, as lab-grown tissues often struggle to grow due to low oxygen levels inside the tissue. By introducing chloroplast-infused cells, oxygen could be supplied through photosynthesis, enabling growth to occur. The researchers are optimistic that these “planimal” cells could lead to a “green transformation” towards a more carbon-neutral society. They plan to continue developing innovative biotechnologies to contribute to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and support sustainable practices.
The team’s findings suggest that the animal cells containing chloroplasts experienced an increased cell growth rate, indicating that the chloroplasts provided a carbon source for the host cells. Future studies could explore the processes involved in substance exchange between the host cell and chloroplasts, as well as investigate the potential production of additional substances. The researchers are excited about the possibilities that “planimal” cells could bring, and they hope to further explore the impact of this technology on creating a more sustainable society.
Overall, this research represents a significant step forward in the field of biotechnology and tissue engineering. By successfully combining energy-making chloroplasts from algae with animal cells, the researchers have demonstrated the potential for photosynthesis and light exposure to supply energy and oxygen to tissues. This innovative approach opens up new possibilities for creating artificial organs, artificial meat, and skin sheets that can overcome issues related to low oxygen levels and enable tissue growth. The development of “planimal” cells could lead to a more sustainable society and contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, making this research a promising avenue for future advancements in biotechnology.