bioRxiv

Scientists at the University of Minnesota claim to have built the most life-like synthetic cell, SpudCell, assembled entirely from nonliving components capable of growth, DNA replication, division, and passing traits to offspring. The synthetic cells require lab-controlled nutrients and external components to survive and have not undergone peer review, with researchers acknowledging limitations like 30% genome inheritance after five generations.

Researchers identified food DNA, including carrot and wheat, on the Shroud of Turin, indicating potential contamination over centuries. The study, based on DNA analysis of dust and fibers, revealed New World crops like tomatoes and peanuts, suggesting post-1492 contamination. The shroud's age remains undetermined via metagenomics.