Japanese Scientists Create Solar-Powered Animal Cells Using Algae Chloroplasts

Researchers have successfully integrated chloroplasts into hamster cells, enabling photosynthesis and potential advancements in tissue engineering.

The study marks the first successful integration of photosynthetically active chloroplasts into animal cells, allowing them to harness energy from sunlight.
Chloroplasts were sourced from red algae and implanted into cultured hamster cells, which continued to photosynthesize for up to two days.
This breakthrough could address oxygen scarcity in artificial tissues, promoting growth by supplying oxygen and energy through photosynthesis.
The research suggests that chloroplast-implanted cells could enhance cell growth rates, potentially offering a new carbon source for the cells.
Future studies aim to explore the exchange of substances between chloroplasts and animal cells, paving the way for 'planimal' cells with dual plant-animal characteristics.