chassis organism

A chassis organism is a standardized, well-understood biological framework used in synthetic biology. Think of it as a "base model" or "core platform"—a living system engineered to host various genetic components or functions. Researchers can insert, modify, or exchange specific genes within this chassis to develop new capabilities, such as producing medicines, biofuels, or polymers. The chassis provides a stable, reliable foundation, ensuring predictable behavior and facilitating the design and optimization of complex biological systems. Essentially, it’s a biological “starter kit” for building custom microorganisms tailored to specific scientific or industrial purposes.