Researchers try to cut the genetic code from 20 to 19 amino acids

"The genetic code is central to life, with all organisms using the same sets of three DNA bases to encode 20 amino acids, suggesting a common ancestor."

"The researchers engineered a portion of the ribosome to work without isoleucine, testing hypotheses about early life forms that may have used partial genetic codes."

"AI-based tools have matured enough that redesigning proteins to use fewer amino acids is far more realistic than it was just a few years ago."

Researchers from Columbia and Harvard engineered a ribosome to function without isoleucine, one of the 20 essential amino acids. This experiment aims to explore the evolution of the genetic code, suggesting that early life forms may have used fewer amino acids. The study indicates that AI tools have advanced to a point where redesigning proteins with a reduced genetic code is feasible. Understanding the chemistry possible with fewer amino acids could provide insights into the metabolic processes of ancient organisms.

Read at Ars Technica