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This cell feeds, grows and reproduces. And it’s made by humans.
By Star Tribune
· July 1, 2026
· 1 min read
University of Minnesota researchers have synthesized simple cells that feed, grow, reproduce and compete with one another for food. If these cells are not yet fully alive, they have most of the hallmarks of life.
Key takeaway If these cells are not yet fully alive, they have most of the hallmarks of life.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
The breakthrough by University of Minnesota researchers in synthesizing simple cells has significant implications for the local scientific community. This achievement positions the Twin Cities as a hub for cutting-edge research in synthetic biology, potentially attracting more talent and investment to the area. The fact that these cells can feed, grow, reproduce, and compete with one another for food means they have most of the characteristics of living organisms, which raises intriguing questions about the boundaries between living and non-living systems. As this research continues to unfold, Minneapolis residents can expect to see increased collaboration between the University of Minnesota and local biotech firms, potentially leading to new innovations and economic opportunities in the region. The city's reputation as a center for scientific inquiry and discovery is likely to grow, making it an even more attractive place for researchers and businesses to locate.
About this story
Original reporting by Star Tribune . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Star Tribune . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: Star Tribune ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? University of Minnesota researchers have synthesized simple cells that feed, grow, reproduce and compete with one another for food. If these cells are not yet fully alive, they have most of the hallmarks of life.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by Star Tribune and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Star Tribune. To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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