Biodefense in the Age of Synthetic Biology (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780309465182)

Scientific advances over the past several decades have accelerated the ability to engineer existing organisms and to potentially create novel ones not found in nature. Synthetic biology, which collectively refers to concepts, approaches, and tools that enable the modification or creation of biological organisms, is being pursued overwhelmingly for beneficial purposes ranging from reducing the burden of disease to improving agricultural yields to remediating pollution. Although the contributions synthetic biology can make in these and other areas hold great promise, it is also possible to imagine malicious uses that could threaten U.S. citizens and military personnel. Making informed decisions about how to address such concerns requires a realistic assessment of the capabilities that could be misused.

Biodefense in the Age of Synthetic Biology explores and envisions potential misuses of synthetic biology. This report develops a framework to guide an assessment of the security concerns related to advances in synthetic biology, assesses the levels of concern warranted for such advances, and identifies options that could help mitigate those concerns.

Author: National Academies of Sciences Engineeri,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Life Sciences
ISBN-10: 0309465184
ISBN-13: 9780309465182
Publisher: National Academies Press
Language: English
Published: 01/05/2019
Pages: 188
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 10.90h x 8.40w x 0.70d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 07/01/2019