Synthetic Biology — A Primer

Synthetic Biology — A Primer (Revised Edition) presents an updated overview of the field of synthetic biology and the foundational concepts on which it is built. This revised edition includes new literature references, working and updated URL links, plus some new figures and text where progress in the field has been made.

The book introduces readers to fundamental concepts in molecular biology and engineering and then explores the two major themes for synthetic biology, namely 'bottom-up' and 'top-down' engineering approaches. 'Top-down' engineering uses a conceptual framework of systematic design and engineering principles focused around the Design-Build-Test cycle and mathematical modelling. The 'bottom-up' approach involves the design and building of synthetic protocells using basic chemical and biochemical building blocks from scratch exploring the fundamental basis of living systems.

Examples of cutting-edge applications designed using synthetic biology principles are presented, including:
the production of novel, microbial synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicalsthe design and implementation of biosensors to detect infections and environmental waste.
The book also describes the Internationally Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, which brings together students and young researchers from around the world to carry out summer projects in synthetic biology. Finally, the primer includes a chapter on the ethical, legal and societal issues surrounding synthetic biology, illustrating the integration of social sciences into synthetic biology research.

Final year undergraduates, postgraduates and established researchers interested in learning about the interdisciplinary field of synthetic biology will benefit from this up-to-date primer on synthetic biology.

Contents:List of ContributorsPrefaceIntroduction to BiologyBasic Concepts in EngineeringFoundational TechnologiesMinimal Cells and Synthetic LifeParts, Devices and SystemsModelling Synthetic Biology SystemsApplications of Designed Biological SystemsiGEMThe Societal Impact of Synthetic BiologyAppendices:Proforma of Common Laboratory TechniquesGlossaryIndex
Readership: Students, professionals, researchers in biotechnology and bioengineering.
Key Features:The book is written in a way that is accessible to students and researchers from different disciplinesThe authors are part of the internationally recognised Centre for Synthetic Biology and Innovation and are among the leaders in this field