Human urine can turn into this useful material. See what is it and how do scientists make this science wonder happen
can now be transformed into
hydroxyapatite
, a mineral found in bones and teeth as scientists have come up with a method. Funded by DARPA, this research uses genetically modified yeast to carry out the conversion. The process is efficient, environmentally useful, and could offer cost-effective materials for medical and industrial use.
Human Urine Transforms into Bone-Like Material
Researchers funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) have turned human urine into hydroxyapatite. This mineral is a key component of bones and teeth. The work was published in Nature Communications on May 6.
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Hydroxyapatite is useful in
medical implants
because it is naturally found in the body. It is not usually rejected by the immune system. However, producing it in the lab is often costly and may involve toxic chemicals.
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What Makes Human Urine Transformation Happen?
Scientists used a yeast species called Saccharomyces boulardii. This yeast is usually found on the skin of tropical fruits and is used as a probiotic.
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The team genetically altered the yeast to break down urea from urine. Urea is a waste product formed when the body breaks down protein. The yeast, now called "osteoyeast," can turn the urea into hydroxyapatite.
One liter of urine can produce about one gram of the mineral. This conversion happens in less than one day.
Environmental and Commercial Benefits
According to co-author David Kisailus from the University of California, Irvine, the process solves two problems. It removes urine from wastewater, helping the environment. It also creates a useful material.
Hydroxyapatite made this way can be used in bone and dental implants. It may also serve other industries. These include archaeological restoration, biodegradable plastic alternatives, and construction materials.
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Scalable and Low-Cost Production
The process is simple and does not need advanced infrastructure. The yeast grows at low temperatures in large vats, similar to beer fermentation. This makes the method cheap and scalable. It can be used even in developing countries.
The researchers are working on ways to expand the method. They want to use it to 3D print hydroxyapatite materials. These could be applied in implants, buildings, and other areas.
Future Plans and Applications
With the method now tested, scientists plan to scale it up. They aim to apply it in multiple industries. The team is looking into making energy-efficient, cost-effective materials that are also biodegradable.
This discovery could help both the environment and industries that rely on strong, natural materials. It could also open new paths for medical and manufacturing advances.
FAQs
How does yeast convert urine into bone mineral?
Yeast breaks down urea from urine and releases hydroxyapatite, the same mineral found in human bones and teeth.
What are the uses of hydroxyapatite made from urine?
It can be used for implants, biodegradable plastics, archaeological restoration, and eco-friendly construction materials.
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