Synthetic DNA – Writing with the letters of life

Genes and complete gene clusters, even artificial chromosomes and viral and bacterial genomes can be sythesized today.

The potential for biological research, biomedicine, and biotechnology appears to be boundless: tedious procedures of genetic engineering are becoming obsolete and the rational design of biosynthetic pathways for the production of valuable natural products is tremendously facilitated.

Moreover, the de novo construction of complete micro-organisms – already technically feasible – should come within reach if there weren't the lack of knowledge of the functioning of cellular systems.

Pioneers of the field – i.a. Roel Bovenberg (DSM), John Glass (J Craig Venter Institute), Emily LeProust (Agilent), Philippe Marlière (Heurisko), Chris Voigt (MIT), Ralf Wagner (Life Technologies), and Eckhard Wimmer (Stony Brook) – will present latest technological advances as well as the fascinating projects and perspectives.