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Emerging technologies transforming the future of global biosecurity
Renan Chaves de Lima1,2, Juarez Antonio Simões Quaresma3
1Postgraduate Program in Tropical Diseases (PPGDT), Tropical Medicine Center, Federal University of Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil.
Frontiers in Digital Health
|June 19, 2025
Summary
Artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetic biology can improve global biosecurity by detecting and mitigating threats. However, ethical and security challenges require robust governance for responsible implementation.
Area of Science:
- Biosecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Synthetic Biology
- Public Health
Background:
- The convergence of AI and synthetic biology presents significant opportunities for enhancing global biosecurity.
- Emerging technologies offer potential for rapid detection, containment, and mitigation of biological threats.
- These advancements also introduce complex ethical and security challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine AI applications in biosecurity.
- To explore synthetic biology innovations in vaccine development.
- To assess the risks of democratizing powerful biotechnologies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of AI applications in biosecurity.
- Analysis of synthetic biology advancements for vaccine development.
- Examination of ethical and security implications of biotechnologies.
Main Results:
- AI and synthetic biology offer dual-use potential for both biosecurity and biothreats.
- Democratization of biotechnologies poses risks alongside benefits.
- Integration into public health systems requires careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- Robust governance frameworks are essential for ethical and equitable implementation of AI and synthetic biology in biosecurity.
- Balancing innovation with security is crucial for future public health preparedness.
- Proactive strategies are needed to manage the risks associated with advanced biotechnologies.
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