Bioengineering: the advent of metabiology (part II)

Area of Science:

• Bioengineering
• Metabiology
• Genetic Engineering

Background:

• The modification of organs and hereditary characteristics marks a pivotal development in biology and bioengineering.
• Metabiology, defined as external intervention in biological functions, organs, and sub-organs, utilizes artificial organs and genetic engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the theoretical potential of metabiology.
• To propose specific goals for metabiology and assess the required engineering capabilities.
• To examine the impact of metabiology on engineering and bioengineering and discuss public policy issues.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical review of metabiology.
• Assessment of engineering capabilities.
• Discussion of public policy implications.

Main Results:

• Identified the transformative potential of metabiology in modifying biological functions and hereditary characteristics.
• Proposed specific goals and outlined necessary engineering advancements for metabiology.
• Examined the broader impact on engineering disciplines and raised fundamental public policy questions.

Conclusions:

• Metabiology offers a paradigm shift in bioengineering, enabling unprecedented control over biological systems.
• Achieving metabiology's potential requires significant advancements in engineering and careful consideration of ethical and policy frameworks.
• Further research and policy development are crucial for navigating the future of metabiology and bioengineering.