A Nature review article by Priscilla Purnick and new SynBERC investigator Ron Weiss offers a peek at how synbio research might shape up. The authors assert that, until now, the field has focused on the non-trivial challenge of combining basic elements (promoters, RBSs, repressors, etc.) into functional and robust modules (switches, pulse generators, cascades, etc.). These efforts have allowed control over the “central dogma” of cellular function (transcription, translation, and post-translational control).

“We are now on the cusp of the second wave of synthetic biology,” claim Purnick and Weiss, “in which basic parts and modules need to be integrated to create systems-level circuitry.” This will rely largely on standardization, which is difficult for those using “uncertain and intricate” biology as an engineering substrate. Despite the daunting challenges, the authors point to progress and potential in the areas of synthetic ecosystems, application-oriented systems, and minimal genomes. In the second wave of synthetic biology, the challenge is to “incorporate classic systems-level engineering practices such as modularity, component testing, standards, interfaces, libraries of parts, and computer-aided design” while not just accommodating but exploiting the unique features of biology that are traditionally considered problematic.

Purnick PE, Weiss R. The second wave of synthetic biology: from modules to systems. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2009 Jun;10(6):410-22. PMID: 19461664