Researchers Set to Create Synthetic DNA from Scratch with $10 Million Grant

One of the largest medical charitable organizations, Wellcome Trust, has allocated £10 million to initiate the world’s first project aimed at creating parts or even entire DNA from scratch. The project, named the «Human Synthetic Genome,» is reported by the BBC.

Such research is considered controversial due to potential unforeseen consequences, such as the emergence of «designer babies» or unpredictable changes in the genome of future generations.

Wellcome Trust believes that these new advancements could pave the way for treating previously incurable diseases. Dr. Julian Sale from the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, a participant in the project, stated that this research represents a significant leap forward in biology.

«We are exploring treatments that will enhance the quality of life as people age, enable healthier aging, and reduce the prevalence of diseases. We aim to use this approach to create disease-resistant cells that can be utilized to restore damaged organs like the liver, heart, or even the immune system,» he remarked.

Critics express concern that this research could provide opportunities for unethical scientists to create enhanced or modified humans.

«We like to think that all experts work for the greater good, but science can also be misused for harm and warfare,» noted Dr. Pat Thomas.

During the initial phase, researchers plan to develop techniques for creating increasingly larger fragments of human DNA. Their goal is to reach a point where they can synthetically assemble an entire human chromosome, which contains genes responsible for development, repair, and life processes.

Subsequently, these chromosomes will be studied and experimented on to gain insights into how DNA and genes regulate bodily functions.

According to Professor Matthew Hurlstone, many diseases arise from genetic malfunctions.

«Building DNA from the ground up allows us to comprehend how DNA truly works and to test new theories. Currently, we can only do this by altering existing genetic material in live systems,» he explained.

Work within the framework of this project will be confined to test tubes and lab equipment—with no plans to create synthetic life. Nevertheless, this technology will grant researchers unprecedented control over human living systems.

While the project is aimed at medical benefits, Professor Bill Earnshaw from the University of Edinburgh raised concerns that unethical scientists might attempt to develop biological weapons or engineered humans with human DNA.

«The genie is out of the bottle. We can impose certain restrictions now, but if an organization with access to the necessary technology decides to start synthesizing anything, I don’t think we’ll be able to stop them,» he stated.

Thomas is worried about how companies might commercialize this technology and develop treatments based on the findings of the research.

«If we manage to create synthetic body parts or even synthetic humans, who will own them? And who will have rights to the data produced from these developments?» she pointed out.

Given the potential risks of utilizing this technology, questions arise regarding the motives behind funding the project.

«We asked ourselves what the cost of inaction is. At some point, this technology will be developed, so by taking action now, we aim to adopt as responsible an approach as possible and confront ethical and moral questions earlier,» said Dr. Tom Collins, who authorized the funding of the initiative.

Earlier, researchers at the Arc Institute developed the Evo 2 model, capable of analyzing genetic code, predicting diseases and mutations, as well as designing new genomes comparable in length to those of simple bacteria.

It’s worth noting that in August 2024, scientists from Johns Hopkins University and North Carolina State University created a functional computer based on DNA instead of traditional electronics.