American Scientists intend to use artificial DNA to create new creatures

Xinhuanet, Beijing, September December 19, 50 years ago, scientists successfully synthesized DNA (DNA) in a test tube for the first time. They combined various common chemical components, creates this most unique life molecule. American researchers are now preparing to bridge a huge obstacle: Completely using artificial DNA to create creatures.

The Washington Post website recently reported that scientists in Maryland have synthesized the world's first completely artificial chromosome-a long string of completely synthetic DNA in the laboratory, these include all instructions required for microbial survival and reproduction.

Scientists hope to transplant the chromosome to a cell next year and expect it to "start on its own", just like software downloaded from the Internet, then "trick" the waiting cell to execute the command. Although the first artificial chromosome is exactly the same as the natural chromosome, scientists are producing other chromosomes that can create an unprecedented creature.

Scientists and philosophers believe that the use of artificial DNA to create a creature is a watershed event that blurs the differences between natural and artificial products, so that people must rethink what makes a thing called life.

However, this unprecedented degree of control over everything in the world is not just a philosophical question. What kind of creature will scientists, terrorists, and other creative people create? How can we curb these individuals that can replicate themselves? Who owns the patent right to the basic tools used to create artificial life?

Security concerns are also increasing. Several scientists have successfully integrated artificial viruses. Humans are about to possess artificial bacteria. Unlike viruses, bacteria can survive and multiply in an environment outside the body. This raises new concerns about pollution, transmission, and potential harm.