Synthetic biology combines science and engineering methodologies to create new biological systems and functions not found in the natural environment. It’s an interesting field and one that has become increasingly more visible to the public. But the emerging trend of applying the principles of genetic engineering to modify existing life forms or generate new ones has fomented heated international debates.
People on both sides of the issue make passionate ethical arguments to support their positions. Those involved in technological innovations of any kind (i.e. typical drug development, agricultural technologies, clean water systems) should pay attention to the debate to understand how it may affect their future endeavors.
Ethical Issues and Synthetic Biology Research
Introducing a new life form, whether deliberate or accidental into earth’s fragile, complex and highly interdependent ecosystem could have devastating effects on all naturally occurring organisms. Engineered microorganisms, like those occurring naturally, have the ability to replicate and adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. One valid concern is that one or more of these organisms may accidentally escape the laboratory and reproduce unchecked.
Deliberate release of organisms that scientists generated for applied purposes may inadvertently cause damaging side effects. Many who vigorously oppose this type of research fear that potentially deadly synthetic organisms may fall into the hands of terrorist groups and rogue nations. Similar to other game-changing discoveries, like development of the atom bomb, our ability as innovators to impact life comes with increasingly greater responsibility. As innovators and researchers, we can alleviate these concerns with due diligence and proper investigative techniques.
Potential and Promise of Synthetic Biology Research
No one can deny that synthetic biology research holds great promise and potential across a broad spectrum of fields including medicine, agriculture, energy, environment, and public health. The promise of synthetic biology rests in the ability to reprogram living organisms and their molecular systems to create practical solutions to global problems. Scientists have had impressive success in producing biofuels from synthetic organisms.
Another promising application resulting from the generation of new life forms involves bioremediation of pollutants—environmental clean up. Researchers claim that synthetically engineered microorganisms have potential to produce vaccines far more rapidly than traditional methods. Synthetic biology holds a potential that is fundamentally different from what we can achieve through simple biotechnology as it is not limited by the existing gene pool.
For instance, some researchers have demonstrated that biological circuits can function in ways similar to simple electronic circuits. Other research involves the bioengineering of a synthetic organism that directly targets certain cancer cells. This would eliminate the need to use treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, which cause damage to healthy cells as well.
Final Considerations
The field of synthetic biology has progressed rapidly while keeping a low profile and staying out of the consciousness of the general public. Consequently, there was no one around to debate the ethical and moral implications of such research. Many on both sides think that things have moved too far ahead to impose a moratorium on the research. I tend to agree with this.
If we were to eliminate research in this promising field, we would essentially turn our backs on discoveries that could have a paradigm-shifting impact on the world. Keep your eye on the growing field of synthetic biology and its potential impact the discovery and development of groundbreaking drugs and other therapeutics. You won’t want to miss the innovations coming out of this sector. What do you want to build today?