Can chloroplasts in animal cells spark a new era of sunlight-powered tissues?

Incorporation of photosynthetically active algal chloroplasts in cultured mammalian cells towards photosynthesis in animals.

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have successfully inserted chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing these animal cells to harness energy from sunlight and photosynthesize—a function traditionally exclusive to plants and algae. Contrary to past assumptions that chloroplasts would not survive in animal cells, the implanted chloroplasts demonstrated photosynthetic activity for up to two days, effectively providing a new pathway for oxygen and energy production within animal cells.

The discovery has significant implications for tissue engineering. Artificial tissues often struggle to thrive due to low oxygen levels, limiting cell growth and survival. By introducing chloroplasts, which produce oxygen through photosynthesis, scientists can potentially enhance oxygen and energy supply within lab-grown tissues. This could make tissue growth more viable, aiding in the development of synthetic organs, meat, and skin.

Scientific Breakthrough

This study marks the first time photosynthetic electron transport has been observed in chloroplasts implanted in animal cells, breaking new ground in bioengineering and cellular integration

Researchers extracted chloroplasts from red algae and implanted them into cultured hamster cells. Through advanced imaging techniques, such as confocal, superresolution, and electron microscopy, the team observed the chloroplasts within the animal cells. Additionally, photosynthetic activity was verified using pulse amplitude modulation fluorometry, which enabled precise measurements of electron transport within the chloroplasts under light exposure.

• Chloroplasts: Organelles in plant and algae cells containing chlorophyll, responsible for photosynthesis by converting sunlight into chemical energy.

• Photosynthesis: A process by which chlorophyll in plants and algae captures light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

• Hypoxia: A condition in which cells or tissues are deprived of adequate oxygen, often limiting cellular growth and viability.

• Pulse Amplitude Modulation Fluorometry: A technique for assessing photosynthetic activity by measuring light-induced changes in fluorescence from chlorophyll.