Wei, E.; Louie, M.; Dessimoz, E.; Orona, C.; Smith, N.; Holste, N.; Slind, M.; Nguyen, H.; Anandhan, S.; Kallivalappil, S. T.; Weinstock, M. T.

Despite transformative advances in DNA synthesis, sequencing, and automation that have accelerated recombinant DNA workflows, molecular cloning hosts have scarcely evolved past the Escherichia coli strains adopted out of convenience in the 1970s. We present NBx CyClone - an engineered strain of Vibrio natriegens - as a next-generation host for molecular cloning. This non-pathogenic marine bacterium combines broad plasmid and genetic tool compatibility, a versatile metabolism, and the fastest known doubling time of any free-living organism. By shortening growth-dependent steps, this host offers a practical route to faster, more efficient recombinant DNA workflows across research and industry.