An article published in the journal “Nature Communications” reports the production of sulfated chondroitin by biosynthesis thanks to genetically modified bacteria of the type Escherichia coli. A team of researchers used a variant of the various CRISPR gene editing techniques called CRISPRi (CRISPR interference) to obtain what, combined with glucosamine, is considered a valid supplement in the treatment of some forms of osteoarthritis. Chondroitin sulfate is normally obtained from the cartilages of animals such as cows, so the ability to generate it using bacteria would offer an ethical and sustainable alternative.