synthetic biology Flashcards
what is a synthetic cell and what are the benefits
a cell that operates off a chemically synthesised genome. they are more predictable, streamlined in function and only grow in very controlled environments
what was the first synthetic cell
synthia
what is a minimal cell and what are their uses
a cell with the minimum amount of function needed to sustain life. it is used for determining gene function, modelling and developing more complex versions of the cell
define parts
they encode biological functions eg DNA
define devices
a collection of parts which encode human defined functions eg protein generator
define systems and name the 4 subcategories
one or more devices designed to perform tasks. they are split into synthesisers, sensors, seekers and strikers
what are the four main processes within the synthetic cell
DNA synthesis, sequencing, assembly and genome engineering
what are the three main fields of application of synthetic biology
commercially, in healthcare and in sustainability
what are the challenges synthetic biology poses (4)
environmental risk of ‘escaped’ organisms, hacking, the alleged devaluation of life and replacing other established industries depended on by some communities
what does RRI stand for
responsible research and innovation
what does RRI oversee
ethical dilemmas, undesirable outcomes of research and other challenges
who makes decisions in regards to RRI
funding bodies, researchers and commercial bodies with specific research interests
what are the 6 goals of the EU RRI framework
engagement, gender equality, inclusivity, ethics, science education and governance to ensure the other 5 are integrated
what are the 4 domains of the UK RRI framework
anticipation, reflection, inclusion and responsiveness
