Appearance
Realizing the potential of synthetic biology.
Literature Information
| DOI | 10.1038/nrm3767 |
|---|---|
| PMID | 24622617 |
| Journal | Nature reviews. Molecular cell biology |
| Impact Factor | 90.2 |
| JCR Quartile | Q1 |
| Publication Year | 2014 |
| Times Cited | 72 |
| Keywords | Synthetic Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Research, Bioethics, Scientific Achievements |
| Literature Type | Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S., Review, Journal Article |
| ISSN | 1471-0072 |
| Pages | 289-94 |
| Issue | 15(4) |
| Authors | George M Church, Michael B Elowitz, Christina D Smolke, Christopher A Voigt, Ron Weiss |
TL;DR
This Viewpoint article highlights the emerging significance of synthetic biology in clinical applications and biotechnology, emphasizing its achievements and the collaborative efforts of diverse scientific disciplines. The authors also address the bioethical challenges associated with designing new biological systems, underscoring the need for responsible innovation in this rapidly developing field.
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Synthetic Biology · Biotechnology · Molecular Research · Bioethics · Scientific Achievements
Abstract
Synthetic biology, despite still being in its infancy, is increasingly providing valuable information for applications in the clinic, the biotechnology industry and in basic molecular research. Both its unique potential and the challenges it presents have brought together the expertise of an eclectic group of scientists, from cell biologists to engineers. In this Viewpoint article, five experts discuss their views on the future of synthetic biology, on its main achievements in basic and applied science, and on the bioethical issues that are associated with the design of new biological systems.
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Primary Questions Addressed
- What are the most significant achievements of synthetic biology in basic and applied science to date?
- How do bioethical considerations impact the design and implementation of synthetic biological systems?
- What interdisciplinary approaches are being taken to overcome the challenges faced in synthetic biology?
- In what ways can synthetic biology contribute to advancements in personalized medicine?
- What future trends are expected in the biotechnology industry as a result of developments in synthetic biology?
Key Findings
Research Background and Purpose
Synthetic biology is an emerging field that integrates engineering principles with biological research, aiming to design and construct new biological systems. The article discusses the evolution of synthetic biology, its achievements, challenges, and the ethical implications of creating synthetic life forms. The authors, experts in various disciplines, share their perspectives on the future potential of synthetic biology in clinical applications and biotechnology.
Main Methods/Materials/Experimental Design
The discussion in the article is based on the synthesis of expert opinions rather than experimental data. However, it highlights key methodologies in synthetic biology, including:
- Genetic Circuit Design: Involves the creation of synthetic genetic circuits for specific cellular functions.
- Computational Modeling: Used for predicting system behaviors and guiding the design of synthetic systems.
- Genome Engineering: Techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 for precise genome editing.
- Metabolic Engineering: Engineering pathways in microorganisms for the production of valuable compounds.
The following flowchart summarizes the technical approaches discussed:
Key Results and Findings
- Advancements: Significant progress has been made in developing genetic circuits, computational tools, and genome editing techniques.
- Applications: Synthetic biology has potential applications in drug production, tissue engineering, and disease treatment.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: The field requires collaboration among biologists, engineers, and computational scientists to tackle complex biological systems.
- Challenges: Key challenges include the slow pace of engineering multicellular systems, the need for safe delivery methods for synthetic circuits, and the ethical implications of creating synthetic life.
Main Conclusions/Significance/Innovation
Synthetic biology represents a paradigm shift in biological research, moving from traditional genetic engineering to an engineering approach that allows for the design of complex biological systems. The potential to create tailored therapies and improve biotechnological processes positions synthetic biology as a transformative field with wide-ranging implications for medicine and industry. The authors emphasize the importance of addressing ethical concerns and ensuring safety in the application of synthetic biology.
Research Limitations and Future Directions
- Limitations: Current methodologies are often slow and idiosyncratic, particularly in mammalian systems. The understanding of how synthetic circuits function in multicellular environments remains limited.
- Future Directions: The authors suggest a focus on:
- Developing more efficient methods for engineering multicellular systems.
- Enhancing collaboration between synthetic biology and the pharmaceutical industry.
- Addressing regulatory and ethical challenges associated with synthetic organisms.
- Exploring applications in regenerative medicine and complex therapeutic interventions.
Summary Table of Perspectives
| Contributor | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Ron Weiss | Focus on engineered circuits for practical applications in mammalian systems. |
| George M. Church | Emphasizes the engineering aspect of biology and the importance of system design. |
| Michael B. Elowitz | Highlights the broad applicability of synthetic biology beyond simple circuits. |
| Christina D. Smolke | Stresses the need for rational design in synthetic biology and addressing measurement challenges. |
| Christopher A. Voigt | Discusses the potential of synthetic biology to revolutionize product manufacturing. |
This structured summary encapsulates the key elements of the article, highlighting the significance and future potential of synthetic biology in various fields.
References
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Literatures Citing This Work
- A designer cell-based histamine-specific human allergy profiler. - David Ausländer;Benjamin Eggerschwiler;Christian Kemmer;Barbara Geering;Simon Ausländer;Martin Fussenegger - Nature communications (2014)
- Advances and computational tools towards predictable design in biological engineering. - Lorenzo Pasotti;Susanna Zucca - Computational and mathematical methods in medicine (2014)
- Cofactor engineering for enhancing the flux of metabolic pathways. - M Kalim Akhtar;Patrik R Jones - Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology (2014)
- Exopolysaccharides produced by marine bacteria and their applications as glycosaminoglycan-like molecules. - Christine Delbarre-Ladrat;Corinne Sinquin;Lou Lebellenger;Agata Zykwinska;Sylvia Colliec-Jouault - Frontiers in chemistry (2014)
- Systems and synthetic biology approaches to alter plant cell walls and reduce biomass recalcitrance. - Udaya C Kalluri;Hengfu Yin;Xiaohan Yang;Brian H Davison - Plant biotechnology journal (2014)
- Synthetic biology for the directed evolution of protein biocatalysts: navigating sequence space intelligently. - Andrew Currin;Neil Swainston;Philip J Day;Douglas B Kell - Chemical Society reviews (2015)
- Designer cell signal processing circuits for biotechnology. - Robert W Bradley;Baojun Wang - New biotechnology (2015)
- Cosmetics-triggered percutaneous remote control of transgene expression in mice. - Hui Wang;Haifeng Ye;Mingqi Xie;Marie Daoud El-Baba;Martin Fussenegger - Nucleic acids research (2015)
- AQUA Cloning: A Versatile and Simple Enzyme-Free Cloning Approach. - Hannes M Beyer;Patrick Gonschorek;Sophia L Samodelov;Matthias Meier;Wilfried Weber;Matias D Zurbriggen - PloS one (2015)
- A gene network engineering platform for lactic acid bacteria. - Wentao Kong;Venkata S Kapuganti;Ting Lu - Nucleic acids research (2016)
... (62 more literatures)
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