#Bioengineering

A global study indicates certain gut microbes can absorb and store PFAS, a group of persistent pollutants often called forever chemicals. Researchers say this microbial behavior could lead to probiotic approaches that help the body excrete these toxins. PFAS contamination is a concern in Thailand, found in groundwater near industrial sites and in the broader food chain, underscoring the potential relevance of this science for Thai public health.

PFAS are used in waterproofing, packaging, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. Their chemical stability causes accumulation in soil, water, and living beings, with links to cancers, kidney damage, developmental issues, and hormonal disruption. In Thailand, groundwater near industrial areas has shown PFAS presence, raising concerns about daily exposure and the safety of food and consumer products. Public health authorities advocate tighter controls and cleaner environments.

A groundbreaking international study has found that certain human gut bacteria are capable of soaking up and storing toxic “forever chemicals,” a class of persistent pollutants known formally as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Researchers believe this unexpected microbial ability could form the basis of innovative probiotic therapies to help the human body rid itself of these hazardous substances, which are already widespread in Thailand’s environment and food chain. The findings offer new hope in the urgent battle against PFAS, which have been linked to a wide range of health risks worldwide.

A new scientific breakthrough shows Spirulina can be bioengineered to produce biologically active vitamin B12, a nutrient previously limited to animal-based foods. The study, led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor of Reichman University and supported by Discover Food, involves a collaboration with researchers from Iceland, Denmark, and Austria. They cultivated a photonic process that yields a photosynthetically controlled Spirulina biomass rich in active vitamin B12, offering a carbon-neutral, plant-based source with levels comparable to beef.

In a groundbreaking development with vast potential to reshape global nutrition and food sustainability, a team of scientists has successfully bioengineered Spirulina to produce biologically active vitamin B12, typically found only in animal products. This advancement is highlighted in new research from Discover Food and spearheaded by Dr. Asaf Tzachor from Reichman University in collaboration with scientists from Iceland, Denmark, and Austria. This coalition has effectively cultivated a photosynthetically controlled form of Spirulina that provides a carbon-neutral, nutrient-rich biomass with active vitamin B12 levels comparable to those in beef.

In a groundbreaking development, scientists have successfully bioengineered Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, to produce biologically active vitamin B12. This innovation promises a sustainable, carbon-neutral alternative to conventional meat and dairy, which are the main sources of this essential nutrient. Published in Discover Food, the research is a collaborative effort led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor from Reichman University and involves international partners from Iceland, Denmark, and Austria. The study explores a biotechnology system developed by VAXA Technologies in Iceland that enables Spirulina to produce carbon-neutral nutrient-rich biomass with vitamin B12 levels matching that of beef.

A team of researchers has bioengineered Spirulina, a blue-green algae, to produce biologically active vitamin B12. The advance offers a carbon-neutral alternative to traditional meat and dairy as major B12 sources. The study, featured in Discover Food, is led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor of Reichman University with international partners from Iceland, Denmark, and Austria. The project builds on a biotechnology system developed by VAXA Technologies in Iceland, enabling Spirulina to generate nutrient-rich biomass with B12 levels comparable to beef.