DTN 075: Tough Times for Synthetic Biology

Plus: DoD plans drone 'hellscape,' SpaceX prepares for first spacewalk, DNA data storage, mysterious 'Wow!' signal deciphered, rocket explosions, AI scientists, and more.

August 23, 2024

"If we want to do interstellar travel in a fraction of a human lifetime we need to look to the frontiers of physics. Can we interact with the fabric of spacetime to generate a propulsive force?"

Synthetic biology, once hailed as a moneymaker, meets tough times

“It’s been a rough go lately for synthetic biology’s flagship companies, which genetically engineer microbes to produce everything from medicines to materials. Three highfliers—each of which once had multibillion-dollar market capitalizations—have fallen fast and hard. Amyris declared bankruptcy last year and by the beginning of this year had sold off several of its cosmetic and personal care product brands. In February, Zymergen, which was betting on microbes to produce transparent and flexible plastic films, liquidated its assets. And in June, Ginkgo Bioworks announced plans to lay off more than one-third of its workers after its stock tanked and revenues for its designer microbes failed to materialize.” (Science)

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To identify the initial adaptation of the eye upon entering microgravity, the crew of the upcoming Polaris Dawn mission will don smart contact lenses with tiny micro-sensors that continuously measure pressure inside their eyes.

Relatively recently, it was discovered that astronauts were experiencing Spaceflight Associated Neuroocular Syndrome (SANS), which symptoms include swelling of the optic nerve, changes in the shape of the eye, and changes to vision.

It is thought this is due to the absence of gravity acting on the body, causing a headward fluid shift and may lead to changes in pressure in the brain and eye. The crewmembers will also measure whether their vision changes on-orbit. This data could confirm fluid shifts are indeed causing changes to the eye, which may ultimately contribute to SANS. (via John Kraus / Polaris)

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