2019 Articles

Opinion: Ethical Boundaries Needed on the Uses of Synthetic DNA

Loike, John D.; Pollack, Robert

This article discusses the ethical concerns surrounding the use of synthetic DNA, particularly as scientists expand the genetic code beyond the natural four-nucleotide base pairs to include synthetic nucleotides. The authors warn of the potential dangers, including the creation of unpredictable organisms that could disrupt natural life forms or be misused as bioterror weapons. They call for strict government regulations and international agreements to ensure the safe development and application of synthetic DNA technologies.