The Chinese Academy of Sciences International Scientific Program on Synthetic Cells was Launched

On October 25, the International Scientific Program on Synthetic Cells of the Chinese Academy of Sciences was a strategic discussion on scientific and technological development and international cooperation in the field of global synthetic cells. The conference invited 48 representatives of scientists in the field of synthetic biology from 37 universities and scientific research institutions from 15 countries on five continents to share the development status of the field of synthetic cells, cutting-edge scientific issues, technological innovation, and explore potential international cooperation opportunities, marking a new stage of expanding cooperation and rapid development of research in this field.

The research of synthetic cell involves multi-level techniques from biomacromolecules to single cells, and the complexity is increasing, and there is no cross-level theoretical guidance. The development of key technologies is unbalanced, and module coordination is difficult. Although each country has its own strengths, the lack of uniform standards and platforms limits the realization of the overall goal. As a global scientific problem, it is urgent for international cooperation and joint efforts.

In recent years, countries around the world have competed to invest in key R&D projects and research plans in the field of synthetic single-cell life, and China has also followed the pace of systematic layout. In October 2023, Shenzhen Advanced Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences jointly launched the Asian Alliance for Synthetic Cells with six Asian countries to carry out cooperation in the field of synthetic biology by relying on major scientific and technological infrastructure of synthetic biology. In April 2024, the Institute led 25 scientific research institutions from six countries to sign a memorandum of cooperation, which provides a solid foundation for equal dialogue with discipline alliances of various continents and the establishment of broader international cooperation.

With the successful conclusion of the International Summit on Synthetic Cells, the Asian Alliance for Synthetic Cells plans to join hands with regional alliances in Europe, the Americas, Africa and other regions to attract more international scientific research institutions and organizations to join the ranks of cutting-edge research on synthetic cells with an open and cooperative attitude. The implementation of the program will focus on cutting-edge basic research issues in the field of synthetic biology, bring together global interdisciplinary strengths, jointly promote cutting-edge research in life sciences and biotechnology innovation cooperation, and jointly tackle global common scientific challenges to promote the well-being of mankind.