Biotechnology is a broad field that applies biological components and processes to serve human needs, while synthetic biology is a specialised branch within it. Though definitions vary, synthetic biology is often described as an advanced approach to genetic engineering, allowing scientists to reprogram living organisms.
This emerging field is transforming medicine, agriculture, and environmental science, offering groundbreaking treatments and sustainable innovations. However, much like the internet enabled cybercrime, synthetic biology also introduces new risks including the potential for biocrime.
What Is Biocrime?
Biocrime refers to the misuse of synthetic biology tools, biological data and lab-based processes to commit offences. Unlike traditional crimes, biocrime could directly impact public health by enabling illegal gene editing, genetic blackmail or even home-brewed drugs.
Researchers (Elagbry et al, 2020) conducted a systematic review of nearly 800 scientific papers to identify the crime risks associated with synthetic biology. Their findings suggest that as this technology becomes more accessible, so do opportunities for criminals. Their study identified eight potential forms of biocrime:
Bio-discrimination Employers, insurers, or criminals could misuse genetic data to discriminate against individuals.
Cyber-biocrime Hackers could manipulate genetic data or tamper with automated bio-labs.
Bio-malware Malicious software encoded into synthetic DNA could be used to hack biological or digital systems.
Biohacking DIY scientists experimenting with genetic engineering could create unintended health risks.
At-home drug manufacturing Engineered bacteria could be used to produce illicit drugs at home.
Illegal gene editing Unregulated human genetic modifications could become a black-market industry.
Neuro-hacking Manipulating the microbiome or genetics to alter cognitive functions.
Genetic blackmail Stolen DNA data could be used to extort individuals or influence legal decisions.
To prevent synthetic biology from becoming a criminal playground, researchers propose ethical hacking - testing and improving security measures before criminals find ways to exploit them. Governments and industry leaders also need to regulate bio-automation and data security, ensuring these technologies don’t become the next big weapon for crime.
Final Thoughts
While synthetic biology holds immense promise, it also presents risks that need to be addressed proactively. By improving biosecurity, monitoring emerging threats and promoting responsible research, society can enjoy the benefits of this technology while minimising its dangers.
This article draws inspiration from the recent release of the movie The Substance, starring Demi Moore. A thriller centered around biocrime, biohacking, and longevity.
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Related Resources and Studies
DiEuliis D, Imperiale MJ, Berger KM. Biosecurity Assessments for Emerging Transdisciplinary Biotechnologies: Revisiting Biodefense in an Age of Synthetic Biology. Appl Biosaf. 2024 Sep 18;29(3):123-132. doi: 10.1089/apb.2024.0005. PMID: 39372508; PMCID: PMC11447134.
Ou Y, Guo S. Safety risks and ethical governance of biomedical applications of synthetic biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2023 Oct 24;11:1292029. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1292029. PMID: 37941726; PMCID: PMC10628459.
Paek AY, Brantley JA, Evans BJ, Contreras-Vidal JL. Concerns in the Blurred Divisions between Medical and Consumer Neurotechnology. IEEE Syst J. 2021 Jun;15(2):3069-3080. doi: 10.1109/jsyst.2020.3032609. Epub 2020 Dec 18. PMID: 35126800; PMCID: PMC8813044.
Elgabry M, Nesbeth D, Johnson SD. A Systematic Review of the Criminogenic Potential of Synthetic Biology and Routes to Future Crime Prevention. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2020 Oct 6;8:571672. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.571672. PMID: 33123514; PMCID: PMC7573185.
Zettler PJ, Guerrini CJ, Sherkow JS. Regulating genetic biohacking. Science. 2019 Jul 5;365(6448):34-36. doi: 10.1126/science.aax3248. PMID: 31273115; PMCID: PMC7004414.
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