Synthetic Biology, Essay Example

Synthetic biology is an emerging discipline in the field of biological research. It has been used as a method of   constructing organisms that are not in existence.  Safety, security and ethics have become the cardinal points of interest with respect to this field. Definition of this subject has been thoroughly discussed among researchers with each of them viewing it from different angles.

Various publications had been produced by researchers and scientists in trying to understand the implications of synthetic biology and this dates back to 1980s when the issue emerged.  Calls have been made by many for the objective assessment and management of this field by the use of scientometrics.  These approaches reveal that synthetic biology involves biotechnology related to gene expression, gene networks, metabolic engineering and genetic circuits.  The field can be further fragmented because of its diversification. It can be broken down specialist areas to focus on specific approaches and organism classes.

Research has been undertaken by several countries on synthetic biology. Networks have also been created between institutions and research groups and thus putting their efforts together in the research of the field. Literatures cited by researchers provide essential information into research that is shaping. It is from these literatures that future researches can be used to examine other indispensable articles in this field. There are also other workers outside the community of researchers writing on synthetic biology, and this demonstrates both the impact and influence of this field.

Citing landscapes assist in indicating knowledge transfer between countries and the emergence of research groups on synthetic biology. The subject has had effects also within other fields ranging from chemistry, virology to ecology. Appropriate governance measures can be taken by focusing on institutions funding synthetic biology. A total of 193 governments are parties to the Convention on Biological Biodiversity. They have designed protocols in regards to biosafety, liability and access to genetic resources.  Movement of Living Modified organisms has also been minimized by the used legislation signed by participating countries.

In conclusion, thorough investigation should be carried out on synthetic biology because of the potential risks associated with it. The use of scientific landscapes should also be highly encouraged so as to meet with researchers who will ultimately help in clear monitoring of field.