About Synthetic Biology

Synthetic biology is a promising new branch of biological research, occupied with the creation of artificial biomolecules and complex biostructures, up to complete artificial organisms. It applies principles of engineering to biological problems, in order to create or modify biological systems with specific new properties.

Fuelled by the rapid progress of DNA synthesis techniques, synthetic biology offers unprecedented opportunities for the advancement of biological research. This powerful technology with the potential to improve our quality of life has a broad spectrum of applications, e.g. in vaccine development, optimization of drugs and renewable energy sources, among many others.

By combining in-depth analysis of a biological system such as a bacterium with mathematical modeling, advanced molecular biology and chemical engineering, synthetic biology can introduce new and beneficial properties into a cell. For instance, bacteria can be modified to produce high amounts of ethanol or other hydrocarbons ready for use as biofuels.

A good illustrative example of the power of Synthetic Biology is the synthesis of artemisinin. This compound is part of an antimalarial drug. Until recently, it had to be harvested from its natural source, a plant that is difficult to cultivate. Using sophisticated molecular biology as well as a detailed analysis of metabolic pathways, a team under Jay Keasling succeeded in creating a cascade of enzymes within the laboratory bacterium Escherichia coli which produces a precursor of artemisinin in the cells. The new E. coli strain can be used to produce much larger quantities of artemisinin, thus satisfying the constantly growing demand for this important drug.