Scientists make mind-blowing medical breakthrough using human waste: ‘This can be done easily‘ – The Cool Down
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Excerpt:
Researchers have developed engineered yeast that converts human waste into medical-grade material for tooth and bone implants, reported Interesting Engineering.
The development tackles two challenges at once. Untreated human waste threatens waterways by flooding them with excess nutrients. At the same time, demand for biocompatible implant materials continues to grow, with the market expected to hit $3.5 billion by 2030.
Scientists at the University of California, Irvine, and partner institutions have engineered “osteoyeast,” a modified organism that mimics the cells responsible for building bones naturally. The yeast processes urea, adjusting pH levels to trigger calcium and phosphate collection. These minerals crystallize into hydroxyapatite, the same substance found in human bones and teeth.