The Cure to Skin Cancer: A Metabolic Approach

Mycosporines are naturally synthesized metabolites found in bacteria that are constantly exposed to sunlight. The mycosporines help to absorb UV radiation and therefore, keep the UV radiation from disrupting the DNA of the cell. Although our skin is host to many different bacteria, none of them produce mycosporines. There are three genes responsible for producing the mycosporine in the cyanobacterium, Nostoc punctiforme. Using a plasmid as a vector, these genes will be transferred to Staphylococcus epidermidis, a natural inhabitant of human skin. The S. epidermidis will then be able to produce their own mycosporine. Applying the S. epidermidis to our skin via a lotion, we will be protected from harmful UV radiation. Horizontal gene transfer on our skin could lead to more bacteria producing the mycosporines and thus, a greater UV protection