Scientists find marine microbe with smallest known genome
An international team of researchers has identified a new archaeon named Candidatus Sukunaarchaeum mirabile that possesses the smallest genetic machinery ever recorded in a living cell.
Discovery of unique organism
The microbe belongs to the archaea group, which is fundamentally different from bacteria. It was named Sukunaarchaeum for short after a small Japanese god. The research team published these findings in the journal Current Biology.
Genetic capabilities and limits
Despite its tiny genome, the organism contains all genes needed to copy DNA and make proteins. However, it lacks almost every gene required to produce its own nutrients and energy. This suggests the microbe depends heavily on other organisms for survival resources.
Research team locations
Scientists from the University of Nottingham led the study alongside researchers from the University of Tsukuba in Japan. Professor Thorsten Allers noted that defining life requires the ability to replicate itself autonomously.
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