#Bioengineering

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.

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.