Future trends in synthetic biology in Asia

Advancing microbiota therapeutics: the role of synthetic biology in engineering microbial communities for precision medicine

Over recent years, studies on microbiota research and synthetic biology have explored novel approaches microbial manipulation for therapeutic purposes. However, fragmented information is available on this aspect with key insights scattered across various disciplines such as molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, and medicine. This review aims to the transformative potential of synthetic biology in advancing microbiome research and therapies, with significant implications for healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. By merging computer science, engineering, and biology, synthetic biology allows for precise design and modification of biological systems via cutting edge technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, metabolic engineering, and synthetic oligonucleotide synthesis, thus paving the way for targeted treatments such as personalized probiotics and engineered microorganisms. The review will also highlight the vital role of gut microbiota in disorders caused by its dysbiosis and suggesting microbiota-based therapies and innovations such as biosensors for real-time gut health monitoring, non-invasive diagnostic tools, and automated bio foundries for better outcomes. Moreover, challenges including genetic stability, environmental safety, and robust regulatory frameworks will be discussed to understand the importance of ongoing research to ensure safe and effective microbiome interventions.

A Scoping Review of Population Diversity in the Common Genomic Aberrations of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Previous literature has shown that clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is becoming a more prevalent diagnosis and that the incidence and mortality differ both regionally and racially. While the molecular profiles for ccRCC are studied regionally through biopsy and sequencing techniques, the genomic landscape and ccRCC diversity data are not well studied. We conducted a review of the known genomic data on 6 of the most clinically relevant DNA biomarkers in ccRCC: von Hippel-Lindau (vHL), Polybromo-1 (PBRM1), Breast Cancer Gene 1-Associated Protein 1 (BAP1), Histone-Lysine N-Methyltransferase Domain-Containing 2 (SETD2), Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), and Lysine-Specific Demethylase 5C (KDM5C). The review compiled genomic diversity data, incidence, and risk factor differences by geographical and racial cohorts.

METHODS

The review methodology was created using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) principles from articles on PubMed and Embase through July 31, 2023, written and published in English, with diagnoses of primary or metastatic ccRCC via cytology or pathology, recorded the incidence of one or more of the 6 biomarkers, explored gene aberration via sequencing, were epidemiological in nature, and/or discussed basic science research, cohort studies, or retrospective studies.

RESULTS

Aberrations in vHL, PBRM1, and SETD2 driving ccRCC are studied frequently, but the data are heterogeneous, whereas there is a paucity in the data regarding KDM5C, PBRM1, and mTOR mutations.

CONCLUSION

Studying the genetic aberrations that frequently occur in different regions gives insight into what current research lacks. When more genomic landscape research arises, precision therapy, risk calculators, and artificial intelligence may help better prognosticate and individualize treatment for those at risk for ccRCC. Provided the scarcity of existing data, and the rising prevalence of ccRCC, more studies must be conducted at the clinical level.

Public biofoundries as innovation intermediaries: the integration of translation, sustainability, and responsibility

The emergence and evolution of engineering biology, and its potential to address multiple global challenges is associated with the rise of biofoundries. These innovation intermediaries are facilities that employ advanced automation and computational analytics to accelerate engineering biology applications. Yet, for biofoundries to fully achieve their promise of generating applications that address grand societal challenges, they need to meet three key challenges: translation of research technology and its commercialization, attention to sustainability, and responsible innovation. Using web content analysis and interviews, this paper explores the functions and capabilities undertaken by existing public biofoundries, the extent to which they address these three challenges, and opportunities and models for enhancement. We also probe the roles undertaken by three other contrasting types of innovation intermediaries to identify practices and opportunities for integration and partnering with public biofoundries. We find that public biofoundries exhibit relatively strong capabilities for research translation, whereas efforts toward sustainability and responsibility are generally less prominent. For biofoundry enhancement, we propose an organisational model based on external partnering where public biofoundries are positioned as intermediaries within regional innovation systems. The framework put forward is reproducible and could be used in other contexts for assessing innovation intermediary organisational functions and capabilities toward meeting societal challenges.

The worsening divergence of biotechnology: the importance of risk culture

In the last 20 years, the field of biotechnology has made significant progress and attracted substantial investments, leading to different paths of technological modernization among nations. As a result, there is now an international divide in the commercial and intellectual capabilities of biotechnology, and the implications of this divergence are not well understood. This raises important questions about why global actors are motivated to participate in biotechnology modernization, the challenges they face in achieving their goals, and the possible future direction of global biotechnology development. Using the framework of prospect theory, this paper explores the role of risk culture as a fundamental factor contributing to this divergence. It aims to assess the risks and benefits associated with the early adoption of biotechnology and the regulatory frameworks that shape the development and acceptance of biotechnological innovations. By doing so, it provides valuable insights into the future of biotechnology development and its potential impact on the global landscape.

Synthetic biology in Indonesia: Potential and projection in a country with mega biodiversity

Synthetic biology has gained many interest around the globe in the last two decades, not only due to its rapid development but also the potential to provide addressable solutions using standardized design of biological systems. Considering its huge population, biodiversity, and natural resources, Indonesia could play an important role in shaping the future of synthetic biology towards a sustainable bio-circular economy. Here, we provide an overview of synthetic biology development in Indonesia, especially on exploring the potential of our biodiversity. We also discuss some potentials of synthetic biology in solving national issues. Furthermore, we also provide the projection and future landscape of synthetic biology development in Indonesia. In addition, we briefly explain the potential challenges that may arise during the development.

Biofoundries and citizen science can accelerate disease surveillance and environmental monitoring

A biofoundry is a highly automated facility for processing of biological samples. In that capacity it has a major role in accelerating innovation and product development in engineering biology by implementing design, build, test and learn (DBTL) cycles. Biofoundries bring public and private stakeholders together to share resources, develop standards and forge collaborations on national and international levels. In this paper we argue for expanding the scope of applications for biofoundries towards roles in biosurveillance and biosecurity. Reviewing literature on these topics, we conclude that this could be achieved in multiple ways including developing measurement standards and protocols, engaging citizens in data collection, closer collaborations with biorefineries, and processing of samples. Here we provide an overview of these roles that despite their potential utility have not yet been commonly considered by policymakers and funding agencies and identify roadblocks to their realization. This document should prove useful to policymakers and other stakeholders who wish to strengthen biosecurity programs in ways that synergize with bioeconomy.

Synthetic biology in Europe: current community landscape and future perspectives

Synthetic biology has captivated scientists' imagination. It promises answers to some of the grand challenges society is facing: worsening climate crisis, insufficient food supplies for ever growing populations, and many persisting infectious and genetic diseases. While many challenges remain unaddressed, after almost two decades since its inception a number of products created by engineered biology are starting to reach the public. European scientists and entrepreneurs have been participating in delivering on the promises of synthetic biology. Associations like the European Synthetic Biology Society (EUSynBioS) play a key role in disseminating advances in the field, connecting like-minded people and promoting scientific development. In this perspective article, we review the current landscape of the synthetic biology community in Europe, discussing the state of related academic research and industry. We also discuss how EUSynBioS has helped to build bridges between professionals across the continent.

Protein Splicing of Inteins: A Powerful Tool in Synthetic Biology

Inteins are protein segments that are capable of enabling the ligation of flanking extein into a new protein, a process known as protein splicing. Since its discovery, inteins have become powerful biotechnological tools for applications such as protein engineering. In the last 10 years, the development in synthetic biology has further endowed inteins with enhanced functions and diverse utilizations. Here we review these efforts and discuss the future directions.