Boosting 'mussel' power: New technique for making key marine mussel protein

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By adding a certain gene to genetically engineered bacteria researchers have increased production of a sticky protein from mussels that could lead to better cheaper antibacterial coatings. Credit: Courtesy of Hyung Joon Cha
By adding a certain gene to genetically engineered bacteria, researchers have increased production of a sticky protein from mussels that could lead to better, cheaper antibacterial coatings. Credit: Courtesy of Hyung Joon Cha

Researchers in Korea report development of a way to double production of a sticky protein from marine mussels destined for use as an antibacterial coating to prevent life-threatening infections in medical implants. The coating, produced by genetically-engineered bacteria, could cut medical costs and improve implant safety, the researchers say. Their study is scheduled for the June 6 issue of ACS’ Biotechnology Progress.


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