Scarab Genomics has bioengineered the Clean Genome^® E. coli by deleting over 15% of the E. coli K-12 genome. Using synthetic biology methods, the K-12 genome was rationally designed by making a series of precise deletions, which included the elimination of non-essential genes, recombinogenic or mobile DNA, and cryptic, virulent genes. This genome reduction optimizes the E. coli strain as a biological factory, providing enhanced genetic stability and improved metabolic efficiency. These properties make the Clean Genome^® the E. coli strain of choice for a wide spectrum of applications ranging from routine cloning to production of biological material for therapeutic purposes. 

Why care about the genomic detritus picked up by your E coli production strain in the course of evolution?