Articles tagged with Synthetic Biology
Researchers at Rice University and the University of Kansas Medical Center have developed modular genetic circuits that can handle multiple chemical inputs simultaneously. These new tools allow scientists to design synthetic cells for specific tasks, such as biofuel production, environmental remediation, and disease treatment.
A new report outlines key research areas to study synthetic biology's potential ecological impacts, including species comparative research and genome stability. The report highlights the need for long-term support and interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex questions about synthetic biology's effects on the environment.
Jiang and DeAngelis' theoretical paper explores how species modify their environment to gain benefits, affecting community diversity. Their work is likely to foster further research and generate hypotheses for experimental studies.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new technology to modify human cells for programmable therapeutics that can target cancer and disease sites. The Modular Extracellular Sensor Architecture (MESA) enables cells to sense specific factors and respond with customized gene expression programs.
Adam Arkin, director of Berkeley Lab's Physical Biosciences Division, has made significant contributions to systems and synthetic biology. He received the 2013 Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award for his work on cellular networks and populations.
Researchers from UH and Rice University collaborated to engineer a synthetic gene circuit that compensates for temperature changes. The team used mathematical modeling to design the plasmid and created a genetic clock with a stable period across various temperatures.
The University of Liverpool has been awarded £2M for a state-of-the-art DNA synthesis facility, GeneMill, to support genome engineering in academia and industry. The lab will provide rapid, cost-effective, and accessible fabrication facilities for DNA parts, enabling researchers to focus on designing and testing re-engineered organisms.
Researchers at Virginia Tech and MIT have developed a computer-aided design tool called GenoCAD to create genetic languages for designing biological systems. The tool helps capture biological rules to engineer organisms that produce useful products or healthcare solutions from inexpensive materials. GenoCAD enables the standardization ...
The UK has established three new synthetic biology research centres, with £40M+ investment, to drive advancement in modern synthetic biology research and develop new technologies. The centres will focus on diverse expertise to stimulate innovation in this area.
The Synthetic Biology Project at Woodrow Wilson International Center has been awarded a €4 million EU grant to foster responsible governance of synthetic biology. The project aims to initiate mutual learning among stakeholders from science, industry, and civil society.
A mathematical model accurately matches the historical record on the emergence of complex states in ancient societies. Simulated warfare drives the formation of large-scale complex societies.
Researchers at Arizona State University have made significant progress in understanding cell fate determination, a process that governs how cells develop and transition. By using mathematical modeling and synthetic biology techniques, they created artificial gene networks and observed the behavior of cells as they approached their tipp...
Scientists have successfully synthesized ribosomes from scratch using a novel technology that mimics the natural process. This breakthrough enables the creation of functional ribosomes with exotic functions and could lead to the discovery of new antibiotics and modified protein-generators.
A new study reveals that females tend to prefer traits linked to fitness, influencing mate choice and population divergence. This finding settles a long debate about magic traits and predicts their commonality in nature.
The Institute for Genomic Biology will develop foundational synthetic biology technologies and computational platforms for genetic modification of plants and animals. The grant aims to address grand challenges in human health and environmental sustainability, with potential applications in crop yields and disease treatment.
A streamlined approach to genetic engineering has been developed, reducing the time and effort needed to insert new genes into bacteria. This new method, called clonetegration, enables the rapid construction of synthetic biological systems and could facilitate genetic engineering with difficult-to-clone sequences.
Sanofi launches large-scale production of partially synthetic artemisinin, a breakthrough in synthetic biology. The drug, developed by Professor Jay Keasling's team, aims to provide stable supply and low cost for developing countries.
The Office of Naval Research has launched a collaborative initiative to use synthetic cells to help Sailors and Marines execute their missions. Researchers are developing genetically programmed cells that can detect chemicals and respond to signals, enabling the creation of 'smart' hybrid biological-robotic systems.
The rapid development of synthetic biology presents new dialogue opportunities between conservation and synthetic biology communities to address ecological and ethical concerns. The authors highlight five emerging issues requiring discussion, including potential impacts on biodiversity and conservation strategies.
Researchers unveil public domain DNA sequences and statistical models to engineer microbes with precision, increasing reliability and accuracy. This technological foundation enables more precise genetic engineering in the future.
A new study from NIMBioS found that using insecticide-treated bed nets can positively affect malaria's reproduction number, leading to potential elimination. The use of ITNs could reduce the transmission of malaria by reducing mosquito density and lifespan.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a rapid method to create new parts for biological factories, which could lead to the mass production of sophisticated devices and unlock their potential in society. This breakthrough brings scientists one step closer to an 'industrial revolution' in synthetic biology.
The University of Nottingham has been awarded £2.9m to develop low-carbon fuel and address global challenges through synthetic biology. Researchers aim to convert carbon monoxide into useful chemicals and fuels without competing with food resources.
The MIT team has developed a synthetic biology circuit that integrates four sensors for different molecules, allowing cells to precisely monitor their environments and respond accordingly. The breakthrough was achieved by creating genetic components that don't interfere with each other, enabling the production of complex circuits.
Researchers have developed an adaptor that makes genetic engineering of microbial components more predictable, converting regulators of translation into regulators of transcription in Escherichia coli. This allows for the construction of increasingly complex functions in microorganisms, enabling safer and more efficient production of e...
Dr. Jay Keasling has made significant contributions to synthetic biology, engineering microbial factories to produce affordable antimalarial drugs and biofuels. His work has improved the lives of millions of people in impoverished areas, making him a true science hero.
A new study demonstrates that female choice and faithfulness played a crucial role in human evolution, leading to the emergence of the modern family. The transition from promiscuity to pair-bonding was characterized by a reduction in male-to-male competition in favor of providing for females and close parental involvement.
The UK's world-leading researchers in synthetic biology will establish platform technology with a new grant of almost £5 million. The platform technology will be based on an information system – SynBIS – which uses a web-based environment, hosting BioCAD and modelling tools for the field.
Northwestern University researchers have received two Grand Challenges Explorations grants to develop new compounds for malaria treatment and biosensors for low-cost diagnoses. The projects aim to improve the health of people in developing countries using synthetic biology techniques.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a way to 're-wire' DNA in yeast, creating a new type of biological wire that can be easily re-engineered. This breakthrough enables the creation of potentially complex biological machines with applications in pollution monitoring and cleaner fuels.
Synthetic biology faces significant environmental risks if not addressed proactively. The authors propose four areas of focus: physiology differences, escaped organisms' impact, evolution, and genetic material exchange. Interdisciplinary research is crucial to mitigate these risks.
Researchers aim to create bacteria that form geometrical patterns to understand stem cell behavior. By modifying E. coli with genetic circuits, they hope to unlock the genetic programming behind complex cellular structures.
Researchers aim to create biological circuits using RNA molecules for the engineering of programmable genetic networks. They have successfully eliminated protein requirements and developed a system that can sense RNA input and synthesize output signals, performing logic operations and regulating multiple genes. This breakthrough has si...
A rigorous bioinformatic analysis of the strengths and limitations of a screening protocol method recommended by the federal government was conducted, leading to the development of GenoTHREAT. The software tool helps detect the use of synthetic DNA as bioterrorism agents and is being released in an open-source format.
A nationwide survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe synthetic biology should continue, but with more research on human and environmental impacts. The public also harbors concerns about security, moral, and health risks, as well as potential damage to the environment.
A bioinformatics team from Virginia Tech and ENSIMAG is using federal guidance to detect the misuse of synthetic biology. The team's work will help gene synthesis companies identify potential threats, improving national security.
The DIYbio community, comprising over 2,000 amateur biologists, is partnering with the Woodrow Wilson Center on a biosafety initiative to ensure safe science. The project aims to develop a positive culture around citizen science and establish best practices for safety in the community.
Matthew Lux, a Virginia Tech Ph.D. student, has been awarded a US Department of Defense SMART scholarship to explore opportunities in synthetic biology for defense applications. His research involves developing intelligent sensors and countermeasures using calibrated genetic parts.
The BIOFAB facility aims to produce thousands of standardized DNA parts, shortening the development time and lowering the cost of synthetic biology for academic or biotech laboratories. The project will enable researchers to mix and match genetic parts in synthetic organisms to produce new drugs, fuels, or chemicals.
The Wilson Center's Synthetic Biology project has received two National Science Foundation grants to support research on the implications of synthetic biology for sustainability science and policy. The projects will explore emerging issues in synthetic biology, including its potential contribution to sustainable development.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a grant to develop GenoCAD, a web-based Computer Assisted Design environment for synthetic biology. The platform allows users to design complex DNA sequences in minutes and will support teams of undergraduate students enrolled in iGEM.
Researchers created 'bacterial computers' that can solve complex mathematical problems, such as the Hamiltonian Path Problem and Burnt Pancake Problem. The innovation uses synthetic biology techniques to enable living cells to perform calculations, opening up new applications for biology and mathematics.
Biomedical engineers at Boston University have developed synthetic gene networks that enable bacteria to count discrete events, opening up potential applications in drug delivery and environmental sensing. The researchers designed two separate systems, the Riboregulated Transcriptional Cascade and DNA Invertase Cascade, which can be us...
A new report by Michael Rodemeyer examines the benefits and drawbacks of regulating synthetic biology using the current U.S. biotechnology framework. While early applications may be adequately covered, advances in the field are expected to create significant challenges for regulatory agencies, including the EPA and FDA.
Researchers have developed a microbial-based method to produce artemisinin, the most powerful anti-malarial drug, at lower costs. This technology can restrict access to artemisinin and delay malaria parasite resistance.
Amyris Biotechnologies has successfully increased the production of amorphadiene to 25g/L through E. coli fermentations, a crucial step towards commercially producing artemisinin precursors. This achievement demonstrates the potential of synthetic biology and fermentation to create a consistent and affordable source of artemisinin for ...
Biochemist David Deamer explores the molecular self-assembly processes that led to the first protocells nearly 4 billion years ago. He proposes a combinatorial chemistry approach to understanding how life began, suggesting complex systems of molecules assembled on early Earth.
The Synthetic Biology Project aims to minimize risks and maximize benefits through rigorous analysis and public engagement. The project explores governance options, examines public perceptions, and identifies knowledge gaps in synthetic biology.
Researchers have developed a synthetic biology advance that creates a stable, fast and programmable genetic clock in E. coli cells. The clock's blink rate changes when temperature, energy source or other environmental conditions change, enabling the detection of environmental information.
The UK is launching a Synthetic Biology Initiative with £900,000 funding to establish a world-leading research community. The project aims to bring together biologists, engineers, and computer scientists to tackle future challenges such as sustainable power generation and medical applications.
Researchers have successfully synthesized a DNA-based memory loop in yeast cells, demonstrating the ability to create a mathematical model that predicts how such a device might work. The memory loop continued throughout many cell divisions, showcasing the potential for biological black boxes with specific functions.
MIT and BU researchers develop modular system to design phages targeting specific bacterial biofilms, achieving high success rates. The technology has potential applications in treating infections and cleaning products.
Scientists from leading institutions worldwide issue a statement highlighting the critical importance of synthetic biology, citing its potential to solve eco-safe energy issues, outbreaks of malaria, and more. The Ilulissat Statement emphasizes the need for an international effort to advance research while developing protective measures.
Glenn Micalizio, Yale Assistant Professor, has been awarded the Eli Lilly Grantee Award for his research on simplifying organic chemistry. His work focuses on developing new methods for forming carbon–carbon bonds to facilitate drug discovery.
Molecular Systems Biology is a new journal that publishes papers on complex biological systems using molecular components and their interactions. The journal features innovative technology for formal descriptions of biological systems and sharing of data in widely-used XML-based formats.
A partnership between OneWorld Health, University of California - Berkeley, and Amyris Biotechnologies aims to produce an inexpensive antimalarial drug using synthetic biology. The goal is to reduce the cost of treatment to under $1 per adult course, making it more accessible to millions in developing countries.