Synthetic biology in the clinic: engineering vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics

Cell. 2021 Feb 18;184(4):881-898. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.01.017. Epub 2021 Feb 10.

Abstract

Synthetic biology is a design-driven discipline centered on engineering novel biological functions through the discovery, characterization, and repurposing of molecular parts. Several synthetic biological solutions to critical biomedical problems are on the verge of widespread adoption and demonstrate the burgeoning maturation of the field. Here, we highlight applications of synthetic biology in vaccine development, molecular diagnostics, and cell-based therapeutics, emphasizing technologies approved for clinical use or in active clinical trials. We conclude by drawing attention to recent innovations in synthetic biology that are likely to have a significant impact on future applications in biomedicine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomedical Research*
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems / genetics
  • Genetic Engineering*
  • Humans
  • RNA / genetics
  • Synthetic Biology*
  • Vaccines / immunology*

Substances

  • Vaccines
  • RNA