Team:BABS UNSW Australia
We aimed to create an endosynbiology toolbox. This toolbox would contain genetic constructs enabling the transformation of several bacterial species into mammalian endosymbionts. To become an endosymbiont, the bacteria must first be able to enter into its new host cell. Once there, it must replicate stably and effectively synthesise the desired product. Most importantly, however, safety checks must be in place to ensure that the bacterial population remains under control and does not become pathogenic.