Description: Synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field that combines principles of biology and engineering to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems. Its goal is to reprogram living organisms to perform specific functions, allowing for the creation of organisms with desired characteristics. This discipline is based on a deep understanding of biological systems and uses engineering tools to manipulate DNA, proteins, and other cellular components. Synthetic biology not only seeks to understand how organisms function but also to apply that knowledge to innovate in areas such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. As technology advances, synthetic biology becomes an increasingly relevant field, offering solutions to complex problems such as the production of biofuels, the creation of gene therapies, and the development of disease-resistant crops. Its focus on the design and construction of biological systems opens up a range of possibilities that could transform the way we interact with the natural world and address global challenges.
History: The term ‘synthetic biology’ began to gain popularity in the early 2000s, although its roots can be traced back to advances in biotechnology and genetics from previous decades. In 2000, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) hosted the first synthetic biology conference, marking a milestone in the formalization of the field. Since then, numerous initiatives and projects have been developed, such as Synthetic Biology 1.0, which focused on creating genetic circuits, and Synthetic Biology 2.0, which expanded the focus to engineering whole organisms. The sequencing of the human genome and the development of tools like CRISPR have further accelerated progress in this area.
Uses: Synthetic biology has applications in various fields, including medicine, where it is used to develop gene therapies and personalized vaccines. In agriculture, it enables the creation of genetically modified crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases. It is also applied in the production of biofuels and sustainable chemicals, as well as in bioremediation, which uses organisms to clean up environmental contaminants.
Examples: A notable example of synthetic biology is the creation of yeast that produces opioids, developed by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley. Another case is the use of modified bacteria to detect contaminants in water. Additionally, the company Ginkgo Bioworks specializes in designing microorganisms for industrial applications, such as the production of ingredients for food and fragrances.
