EASAC
Realising European potential in synthetic biology | December 2010 | v
Foreword
Synthetic biology covers the design and construction
of novel biological components, systems and
processes – that are not already known to exist in
nature – together with the re-design of existing
biological systems. Synthetic biology is interdisciplinary,
drawing on precepts and practices from a wide range of
methodologies and disciplines, including the techniques
of genetic engineering.
Although it can be sometimes diffi cult to demarcate
synthetic biology from other established research areas,
many within the scientifi c community believe that, by
applying the principles of engineering and chemical
design to biological systems, synthetic biology will lead
to new applications of considerable societal value.
Among the potential products and services are new
systems for energy, materials and chemicals production;
medical diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines; and
innovative approaches to the clean up of hazardous
waste. Synthetic biology is important for Europe. There is
signifi cant potential for the European Union (EU) to invest
in synthetic biology research and to capitalise on the
emergent innovations.
This EASAC report was prepared by consultation with
a Working Group of experts, acting in an independent
capacity, nominated from across the EU. It also takes
account of previous work by individual member
academies. Our report discusses the distinguishing
features of synthetic biology, describes a wide range of
research approaches contributing to the current state of
knowledge and explores potential applications in tackling
societal priorities and supporting economic growth.
We recognise, however, that in some respects this is
becoming a controversial area and, in addressing the
main concerns expressed about synthetic biology, we also
assess the options for engaging in public dialogue and
strengthening research governance and the regulatory
environment in order to support sustainable development
of the fi eld. We emphasise the importance of making
best use of all EU academic strengths—in the humanities
and social sciences as well as the natural sciences and
engineering.
In the time elapsed since the EASAC Working Group
completed its task, a major research advance has
been published
1
. This represents the fi rst successful
transplantation of a synthesised genome into a recipient
cell: the synthesis of a slightly modifi ed genome of the
bacterium Mycoplasma mycoides, its placement into
the related species Mycoplasma capricolum and the
demonstration of the replication of cells exhibiting the
characteristics of M. mycoides. This important technical
landmark represents a signifi cant proof-of-concept
in synthetic biology although it did not create a truly
synthetic life form because the synthetic genome was
inserted into an existing cell. The research provoked
media accounts that reiterated previously expressed
concerns about the creation of new forms of life, for
example novel viruses as bioweapons. However, it is vital
to ensure that the expression of these concerns does
not inappropriately constrain the responsible conduct of
science. One pervasive problem during the short history
of synthetic biology has been the hyperbole expressed by
some media and other commentators, but also by some
within the scientifi c community. Our report observes
that many concerns that are raised are not unique to
synthetic biology, and that the scientifi c and regulatory
frameworks that govern safe and accountable research
and development are already in place, or can readily be
adapted to cope with the scientifi c advances foreseen.
Our recommendations identify tangible actions, building
on what has already been achieved at both EU and
Member State levels.
The EASAC report also discusses the early initiatives in
public dialogue on synthetic biology—and recommends
that these be augmented. In this regard, we welcome
a recent survey of public attitudes by the UK research
funding councils
2
. This survey showed that there is
public support for synthetic biology research and its
applications, subject to conditions on how and why it is
conducted. EASAC endorses the emphasis on continued
public dialogue to ensure that endeavours in synthetic
biology refl ect wide public interests and aspirations. That
is why, for the fi rst time, the EASAC recommendations
for professional policy-makers in this report will be
accompanied by a shorter communication for the lay
public.
In his inaugural address, the new President of the German
Academy of Sciences Leopoldina
3
, Jörg Hacker, in
commenting on the potential of synthetic biology quoted
Voltaire ‘Any schoolboy can kill a fl ea, yet all the members
of all the academies in the world cannot fabricate a fl ea’
.
Nor can synthetic biology, so far in the 21st century.
However, we are rapidly increasing our understanding
of biology and the practicalities for engineering novel
biological systems. And the academies have a continuing
responsibility to interpret and communicate the
1
Gibson, DG, Glass, JI, Lartique, C, et al. (2010). Creation of a bacterial cell controlled by a chemically synthesized genome.
Science, published online 20 May 2010, doi:10.1126/science.1190719.
2
BBSRC, June 2010 ‘New report reveals public’s views on synthetic biology’, www.bbsrc.ac.uk/media/releases/2010/100614-
synthetic-biology-report.aspx.
3
Hacker, J (2010). Nova Acta Leopoldina NF 112, no. 385.