The future of cell-free synthetic biology

Abstract

Cell-free synthetic biology aims at the targeted replication, design, and modification of life processes in open systems by breaking free of constraints such as cell membrane barriers and living cell growth. The beginnings of this systematized technology, which took place in the last century, were used to explore the secrets of life. Currently, with its easy integration with other technologies or disciplines, cell-free synthetic biology is developing into a powerful and effective means of understanding, exploiting, and extending the structure and function of natural living systems. Cell-free synthesis technology has been used in basic and applied research such as metabolic prototyping, artificial cell construction, nucleic acid engineering, protein engineering, etc. Worldwide experts shared their views and opinions on the future development of cell-free synthetic biology, as illustrated in this paper. With the integration of current popular technologies such as artificial intelligence and electronics, cell-free synthetic biology will play an increasingly important role in fields such as life exploration, intelligent manufacturing, human health, new energy, and sustainable environmental development.