Random mutations turn RNA droplets into cell-like structures that move and store cargo
Researchers at Heidelberg University have discovered that random genetic mutations can transform simple RNA droplets into complex, cell-like structures. These synthetic structures are capable of movement and cargo storage, offering new insights into the origins of life.
Why it matters
This breakthrough in synthetic biology provides a potential roadmap for creating minimal living cells, which could have significant implications for medical technology.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add to Preferred Sources Graphical abstract. Credit: Nature Chemical Engineering (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s44286-026-00454-4 A small number of random genetic mutations cause simple RNA droplets to transform into cell-like structures. In this process, they form cavities, can move and are able to take up cargo.
Research led by Dr. Kerstin Göpfrich at the Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH), in cooperation with experts from the German Cancer Research Center and the University of Augsburg, has demonstrated this using nanostructures based on ribonucleic acid. Just a few molecular changes are enough to trigger these complex processes in very simple synthetic cells—a principle that the researchers also hope to harness for medical applications.
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