ASSASSINS’ RECIPE

Bacteria and human cells can have a vastly different reaction to a substance – it’s why when taking an antibiotic the drug will kill bacteria without affecting us.

David Ackerley’s DNA recipe instructions borrow from the bacteria cookbook, specifically the steps to make a certain enzyme. The original enzyme converts an otherwise-harmless substance into a toxic one, poisonous enough to kill a cell. Ackerley’s lab has since

Photo: CAMERON BURNELL/FAIRFAX NZ Real eye-opener: David Ackerley is helping to design a lab-grown retina.