What does synthetic biology focus on?

Synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field that emphasizes the design and construction of new biological systems. This involves the application of engineering principles to biology, allowing scientists to reprogram living systems or create entirely new functions from biological components. By synthesizing new DNA sequences, pathways, or even entire organisms, synthetic biology aims to create systems that can perform specific tasks, such as producing biofuels, synthesizing pharmaceuticals, or even developing new agricultural practices.

The focus on engineering biological components and systems differentiates synthetic biology from other biological disciplines. For instance, while the preservation of natural ecosystems, isolation of novel microorganisms, and study of natural evolution are all important aspects of biological science, they do not encompass the core principles of synthetic biology, which is fundamentally about innovation and manipulation of biological pathways and systems for purposeful applications.