Previous Generations

The inaugural iGEM UAM team participated in the 2021 iGEM Design League and the 2022 iGEM Competition with their project, Spidicide-CX. This biopesticide was developed using synthetic biology tools to address coleopteran pests affecting crops such as avocado, agave, and cactus in Mexico. The team employed spider venom peptides expressed in Pichia pastoris to create a cell-free biopesticide that is both effective and environmentally friendly.

Their innovative approach earned them a Gold Medal in the both competitions and first runner-up iGEM Design League, along with nominations for Best Computational Design Implementation and Best Scientific Infographic. Additionally, they received recognition for their contributions to synthetic biology and science communication.

The second generation of iGEM UAM participated in the 2023 iGEM Design League with Lilyplastic, a project aimed at addressing the environmental impact of conventional plastics through the production of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a biodegradable bioplastic. By using the invasive water lily (Eichhornia crassipes) as a sustainable substrate, the team not only sought to generate an ecological alternative to petroleum-derived plastics but also to contribute to the control of a species that severely affects Mexican aquatic ecosystems.

Their innovative approach earned them a Gold Medal at the 2023 iGEM Design League, recognizing their excellence in design, implementation, and the integration of ecological and social perspectives.