Synthetic Biology | Background and Aims
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Background and aims
In this study, we present an overview of the intensively discussed field of synthetic biology/synthetic
genomics. It has been included into the catalogue of emerging techniques that are currently being evaluated
by regulatory bodies in a number of countries, including the European Union (Lusser et al. 2011). Using
synthetic biology/synthetic genomics, existing organisms
may be reproduced in vitro, natural
ones be modified
or completely artificial organisms be created.
To date there is no conclusive decision as to a formal definition of synthetic biology or synthetic genomics.
Based on a comprehensive literature research current definitions of “synthetic biology” and “synthetic
genomics” are presented; a clear bias towards the use of the term “synthetic biology” was identified. The
literature research provided the conceptual framework of this report. Following this general assessment,
state-of-the-art methods applied to assemble synthetic genomes are reviewed, and the relevant approaches,
methods and techniques to build a synthetic genome are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the major
elements of synthetic genomic approaches,
i.e. parts, genes, devices pathways and genomes. Parts are
generated from synthesised DNA and are assembled to larger units following a clear design.
The next part of this report focuses on existing and emerging applications of synthetic biology. Whereas there
have been major advances in microbial systems, the technique is still in its infancy in the plant field. In most
cases these organisms are grown in contained systems, which is also the case for heterologous hosts that are
used to express plant pathways created by synthetic biology approaches. The latter may also be seen as
developments that aid future applications in higher plants. Even though developed for closed systems it
cannot be excluded that these microorganisms are released unintentionally. Potential deliberate
environmental release scenarios are related to the microbial field and to “plant-like” systems like microalgae,
and implications for risk management are discussed.
Despite the currently prevailing preference for contained use of microbes and microalgae, some applications
might also involve deliberate release of higher plants. Considerable potential of the technique related to
industrial applications is forecast. The most important are the production of valuable compounds and uses in
the bioenergy sector, which will potentially lead to environmental release. In view of this, the major
differences between current risk assessment procedures for genetically modified plants and those relevant for
synthetic biology approaches are highlighted.
The report concludes with recommendations. We raise aspects that should be considered when
evaluating the
challenges related to possible applications of synthetic biology. Due to the fast development of the field these
recommendations are indicative as contemporary uncertainties concerning future uses have to be taken into
account.