Scientists have genetically engineered a living cell called Syn 3.0. With a mere 473 genes, the new synthetically engineered bacteria has the smallest genetic code on Earth for a self-sufficient creature. Scientists' long term vision has been to design and build synthetic organisms on demand, starting with a "blank" organism like Syn 3.0 and set in specific functions. According to Daniel Gibson, a synthetic biologist at the J. Craig Venter Institute, these cells would be a very useful chassis for many industrial applications such as biochemicals, agriculture, nutrition, or creating medicines, and biofuels.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/sci...thetic-cell-has-worlds-smallest-genetic-code/
http://www.popularmechanics.com/sci...thetic-cell-has-worlds-smallest-genetic-code/