Scientists use bioengineered yeast instead of poppies to make opioids
By Will Dunham WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Scientists have invented a speedy method to make potent painkilling opioids using bioengineered baker's yeast instead of poppies, but need to fine-tune the process to make it commercially viable, according to a study published on Thursday. The new method, if it can be made more efficient, could significantly change the multibillion-dollar pain medication manufacturing business, but raises concerns about aggravating the growing problem of opioid abuse. The scientists said they altered the yeast&039;s genetic make-up in a way that coaxed the cells to convert sugar into two opioids – hydrocodone and thebaine – in three to five days.
