What is the future of synthetic life?

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Scientists in the US have achieved a significant milestone by creating the first synthetic living cell, which involves constructing a bacterium's genetic software and transplanting it into a host cell. The engineered microbe exhibits characteristics dictated by the synthetic DNA. Researchers aim to harness this technology for practical applications, such as producing medicines, fuels, and potentially absorbing greenhouse gases. The discussion highlights the promising future of synthetic biology, emphasizing its potential benefits for humanity, while also expressing concerns about the ethical implications and the need to prevent misuse, particularly by military entities.
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Scientists in the US have succeeded in developing the first synthetic living cell.

The researchers constructed a bacterium's "genetic software" and transplanted it into a host cell.

The resulting microbe then looked and behaved like the species "dictated" by the synthetic DNA.

The researchers hope eventually to design bacterial cells that will produce medicines and fuels and even absorb greenhouse gases.

BBC News

It's going to be a pretty interesting field to get into now.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
waht said:
BBC News

It's going to be a pretty interesting field to get into now.

Yup, hopefully the field continues to grow, I can see quite a bit of benefits all of man-kind can potentially have through this research. As long as we keep it out of the hands of the military and the like. :approve:
 
Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase: "What do you do for a living?"
 
Sigh. This is the beginning of the end.
 
cronxeh said:
Sigh. This is the beginning of the end.
This thread? The Omega strain? Life as we know it? :biggrin:
 
Duplicate.
 

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