Synthetic biology: creating opportunities

Synthetic biology is the engineering of biology: the synthesis of complex, biologically based (or inspired) systems, which display functions that do not exist in nature. This engineering perspective may be added at all levels of the hierarchy of biological structures – from individual molecules to whole cells, tissues and organisms. In essence, synthetic biology will enable the design of “biological systems” in a rational and systematic way.

The Committee has used this European consensus definition of synthetic biology in this advisory report. The Committee considers synthetic biology an innovative approach in the life sciences with potential significance for science and society. The advisory report addresses the questions posed by the minister of Education, Culture and Science.