- Researchers developed a new way to build phage DNA.
- The method makes fully synthetic phage genomes possible.
- Scientists can now add or remove single genes.
- This work may help treat bacterial infections.
- Some phage DNA is hard to make in the lab.
- DNA carries genetic instructions for the phage.
- The new process solves problems with hard DNA.
- Scientists make genomes in parts and join them.
- This may speed finding the right phage.
Difficult words
- phage — a tiny virus that attacks bacteria
- genome — all the genetic instructions of a living thinggenomes
- gene — a small part of genetic material giving instructionsgenes
- synthetic — made by people, not made by nature
- bacterial — related to bacteria, small living cells
- infection — when bacteria or other germs cause illnessinfections
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Discussion questions
- Have you heard the word phage before?
- Do you know what DNA does?
- Would you like to learn more about genes?
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