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Programming Cells Quickly and Easily

NSF Award:

GRADUATE RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM  (Harvard University)

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NSF graduate research fellow Harris Wang invented the Multiplex Automated Genome Engineering (MAGE) platform, a bioengineering technique that allows researchers to rapidly increase the design and evolution of microorganisms with new and improved properties.

Engineering bacterial cells by manipulating their genomes is a slow, laborious process. MAGE is helping to address global challenges by enabling bioengineers to program cells quickly and easily. Future applications of the research could include:

  • production of pharmaceuticals, including artemisinin for malaria treatment, Taxol to fight cancer and lycopene as an antioxidant dietary supplement;
  • production of biofuels such as ethanol, butanol, diesel and other hydrocarbons; and
  • cell-based therapies.

Related links: Nature

 

Images (1 of )

  • Photo of MAGE platform
  • Photo of lycopene
  • Photo of Dr. Harris Wang making presentation to government officials
The Multiplex Automated Genome Engineering (MAGE) platform.
Harris Wang, PhD, Harvard University
An anti-oxidant dietary supplement, lycopene.
Harris Wang, PhD, Harvard University
Dr. Harris Wang's Grand Prize presentation at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office sponsored Collegiate Inventors Competition.
Harris Wang, PhD, Harvard University

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