Using a Synthetic Biology approach we are building a semi-synthetic minimal cell. This represents an exercise to shape a minimal-cell
model system recalling the simplicity of early living cells in early evolution. We have recently introduced into liposome
compartments a minimal set of enzymes named “Puresystem” (PS) synthesizing EGFP proteins. To establish reproduction of the
shell compartment with a minimal set of genes we have cloned the genes for the Fatty Acid Synthase (FAS) type I enzymes. These
FAS genes introduced into liposomes, translated into FAS enzymes by PS and in the presence of precursors produce fatty acids.
The resulting release of fatty acid molecules within liposome vesicles should promote vesicle growth and reproduction. The
core reproduction of a minimal cell corresponding to the replication of the minimal genome will require a few genes for the
DNA replication and the PS, and a minimum set of genes for the synthesis of t-RNAs. In future the reconstruction of a minimal
ribosome will bring the number of genes for ribosomal proteins from 54 of an existing minimal genome down to 30–20 genes.
A Synthetic Biology approach could bring the number of essential genes for a minimal cell down to 100 or less.
Keywords Synthetic biology - Minimal cell - Liposomes - Origin of life - Minimal genome
International School of Complexity–4th Course: Basic Questions on the Origins of Life; “Ettore Majorana” Foundation and Centre
for Scientific Culture, Erice, Italy, 1–6 October 2006.