The Emerging Field of Synthetic Genomics: New Hope?

Although my loyalty is toward natural means of healing any disease, I cannot overlook advances in scientific technology. My 17 year old son wishes to pursue a career in synthetic biology, and it was he who brought this field to my attention. Synthetic biology has HUGE (as in the development of the microchip huge)implications not only for medical advances in both genetic diseases such as muscular dystrophy and microbial diseases such as malaria, but also in many other fields such as alternative biofuels.

The leading university research laboratory for synthetic biology is located at UC Berkely, where California Gov. Schwarzenegar gave high praises concerning the industry and its future impact on the world at a conference in May 2008. The leading independent research lab is led by Dr. J. Craig Venter of J Craig Venter Institute.

Please read this overview from JCVI concerning this growth industry and options for governance.

-Donna

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http://www.jcvi.org/cms/research/projects/syngen-options/overview/


Synthetic Genomics | Options for Governance

Overview

Synthetic genomics combines methods for the chemical synthesis of DNA with computational techniques to design it. These methods allow scientists and engineers to construct genetic material that would be impossible or impractical to produce using more conventional biotechnological approaches. For example, using synthetic genomics it is possible to design and assemble chromosomes, genes and gene pathways, and even whole genomes.

Scientists foresee many potential positive applications including new pharmaceuticals, biologically produced (“green”) fuels, and the possibility of rapidly generating vaccines against emerging microbial diseases.

However, as with many technologies, there is the potential for misuse and accidents. Finding ways to mitigate possible nefarious uses and to prevent accidents in the laboratories of legitimate users so that positive uses are not undercut is an important concern of scientists, governments, and a large variety of stakeholders.

This report is the result of a 20-month examination of the safety and security concerns posed by this new technology. Including the authors, a core group of 18 individuals with a wide range of expertise undertook three tasks: assess the current state of the technology, identify potential risks and benefits to society, and formulate options for its governance. The report discusses options that would help to enhance biosecurity, foster laboratory safety, and protect the communities and environment outside of laboratories. Three sets of options apply respectively to commercial firms that supply DNA; the oversight or regulation of DNA synthesizers and reagent used in synthesis; and the legitimate users of the technologies, such as university researchers.

Funding

Alfred P. Sloan Foundation

Collaborators:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Center For Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
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