Regarding synthetic biology.

In summary, scientists have the ability to synthesize full DNA, but not complete cells. Without any genetic material, an empty cell cannot be considered alive. However, initial functions may still occur due to remaining proteins, but without the ability to reproduce, the cell would eventually die.
  • #1
hadeka
32
0
Dear all

Now -- as you all know -- scientists have reached the ability to synthesize a full DNA.

My question is:
Is it scientifically possible to synthesize a full cell? Can scientists do it?
And if yes, when scientists can possibly reach that stage?

Another question please:
When scientists placed the synthetic DNA into the empty cell, can we consider this empty cell (before placing the DNA) alive?
Was it alive when it was empty?


Thank you


Waiting for replies.


Best wishes



Hadeka
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
It's not alive until it has genetic matereal in it.
 
  • #3
One of the characteristics of life is the ability to reproduce and pass on heritable traits to its offspring. Without any genetic material, an empty cell would not fulfill this criterion.
 
  • #4
First of all, it is not possible to synthesize complete DNA.
Read Venter's & Co. article in the Nature journal.

to this:
"When scientists placed the synthetic DNA into the empty cell, can we consider this empty cell (before placing the DNA) alive?
Was it alive when it was empty?"

Well, it depends what you mean alive. YES, the first moments, the cell was able to perform it's functions due to the proteins remained in the cytoplasm. However, after a period of time the cell would die because no new proteins are synthesized. So you see, the cell wasn't empty, it just missed the blueprint for the protein production.
 
  • #5


I can provide a response to your questions regarding synthetic biology.

Firstly, regarding the ability to synthesize a full DNA, this is indeed a remarkable achievement in the field of synthetic biology. Scientists have been able to accurately recreate the genetic code of various organisms, including bacteria and viruses. However, it is important to note that this does not mean we can create a full functioning organism from scratch. DNA is just one component of a living cell and there are many other essential components and processes that are required for a cell to be considered alive.

To answer your first question, it is currently not possible to synthesize a full cell from scratch. While scientists have made progress in creating synthetic cells with minimal genomes, these cells still require a host cell for survival and replication. It is a complex and ongoing challenge for scientists to create a fully synthetic cell that can function independently.

As for your second question, it is a philosophical debate whether an empty cell can be considered alive. Some argue that without the essential components and processes, the cell is not truly alive. Others may argue that the potential for life is present in the cell, even without any genetic material. Ultimately, the definition of life is still a topic of ongoing discussion and research in the scientific community.

In terms of when scientists may be able to reach the stage of creating a fully synthetic cell, it is difficult to predict. It is a complex and challenging field of research that requires a deep understanding of biology, genetics, and engineering. However, with advancements in technology and continued research efforts, it is possible that we may one day achieve this feat.

I hope this response has helped to address your questions and provide some insight into the current state of synthetic biology. The field is constantly evolving and there is much more to learn and discover. Thank you for your interest and I wish you the best in your continued exploration of this fascinating topic.

Best regards,

 

1. What is synthetic biology?

Synthetic biology is a discipline that combines principles from biology, engineering, and computer science to design and create new biological systems, molecules, and organisms. It involves creating synthetic DNA sequences and inserting them into living cells to produce desired functions or products.

2. What are some applications of synthetic biology?

Synthetic biology has a wide range of potential applications, including the development of new medicines, biofuels, and agricultural products. It can also be used in environmental remediation, bioremediation, and biosensors for detecting pollutants or diseases.

3. How is synthetic biology different from traditional genetic engineering?

Synthetic biology involves a more systematic and deliberate approach to designing and constructing biological systems, whereas traditional genetic engineering typically involves making specific changes to existing organisms. Additionally, synthetic biology often uses computer-aided design tools and standardized parts to create new biological systems.

4. What are the potential ethical concerns surrounding synthetic biology?

Some ethical concerns surrounding synthetic biology include the potential for unintended consequences, such as the creation of new diseases or environmental damage. There are also concerns about the safety and regulation of genetically modified organisms and the potential for unequal access to the benefits of synthetic biology.

5. How can synthetic biology benefit society?

Synthetic biology has the potential to revolutionize many industries and improve our quality of life. It can lead to the development of new and more efficient medicines, sustainable sources of energy, and environmentally-friendly products. It also has the potential to address global challenges such as food security, climate change, and disease prevention.

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