Whole-genome combinatorial gene fusions generate novel genes for advanced microbial trait development

). Active fusion genes were cloned, validated, and sequenced, revealing a multitude of biological functions represented in these genes, including proteins involved in transcription, translation, metal ion binding and transport, and cell cycle control, as well as unknown functions. The gain-of-function principle of gene fusions was confirmed by comparing the activity of selected fusion genes to their constituent single ORFs expressed either individually or in nonfused pairs. Function Generator™ represents a powerful way to approach phenotypic diversity in the laboratory and to bypass a key evolutionary bottleneck for accelerated strain development.