Blurring the boundaries between living and non-living? Examining and mapping the living properties of engineered matter and systems

Abstract

This study revisits the long-going discourse concerning the distinction between living and non-living matter, specifically focusing on living and non-living synthetic materials and engineering creations. As the distinctions between these two categories become increasingly blurry, it becomes imperative to investigate the emerging field of “quasi-living” materials, structures, devices, and systems. The central objective here is to systematically compile and assess these contemporary quasi-living entities by mapping their life-like properties, as described in recent influential studies. To this end, this study first examines and compares the commonly accepted properties of life, culminating in an operative list of salient features from an engineering perspective. The quasi-living materials, structures, devices, and systems are methodically classified, elucidating their properties of life, considering both current state-of-the-art achievements and foreseeable advancements in short and medium terms. This assessment leads to a final discussion about the current frontiers between abiotic and living matter and their anticipated evolution, while addressing the ethical, legal, and societal actions, essential for the safe, beneficial, and sustainable research in these areas. The comprehensive study yields three main outcomes: a classification for identifying and addressing societal and ethical challenges, a preliminary legislative roadmap highlighting exemplary practices, and a set of urgent research directions demanding immediate attention from the research community.