Class N. 1 Assignment

1. First, describe a biological engineering application or tool you want to develop and why. This could be inspired by an idea for your HTGAA class project and/or something for which you are already doing in your research, or something you are just curious about.

I want to develop a probiotic system capable of degrading plastic inside the human body by enhancing the natural plastic-degrading properties of certain microorganisms. With the increasing presence of microplastics in food, water, and even human tissues, there is growing concern about their potential long-term health effects. Some bacteria have been identified as having the ability to break down plastics, but their activity is often slow or inefficient in biological environments. By using synthetic biology tools, I aim to optimize and safely integrate plastic-degrading enzymes into probiotic strains that can function within the human gut. This could provide a novel, biological approach to reducing microplastic accumulation in the body and mitigating its associated risks.

2. Next, describe one or more governance/policy goals related to ensuring that this application or tool contributes to an "ethical" future, like ensuring non-malfeasance (preventing harm). Break big goals down into two or more specific sub-goals. Below is one example framework (developed in the context of synthetic genomics) you can choose to use or adapt, or you can develop your own. The example was developed to consider policy goals of ensuring safety and security, alongside other goals, like promoting constructive uses, but you could propose other goals for example, those relating to equity or autonomy.

Several governance and policy goals must be established to ensure that the development of plastic-degrading probiotics contributes to an ethical future,

2.1. Ensuring Safety and Minimizing Risks

• Thorough Testing Before Use: To ensure plastic-degrading probiotics do not harm gut health or disrupt the microbiome, laboratory and clinical studies are needed.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments: Carry out long-term studies to monitor side effects of the probiotic. Create clear steps for changing or recalling the product if needed.

2.2. Preventing Unintended Spread

• Built-in Safety Features: Genetic safeguards (kill switches or nutrient dependencies) are necessary to control probiotic activation. It is always important to have a back door.

• Controlled Use and Distribution: Establish strict guidelines for use:

• prescription requirements

• safe application conditions

2.3. Promoting Ethical Development and Transparency

• Inclusive Decision-Making: When involving different types of actors in discussions, it is easy to take all perspectives into account. The topics might include not only risks but also benefits and regulatory measures (Scientists, policymakers, ethicists, and the public).
• Clear Public Communication: Provide users with clear information on how the probiotic works. Moreover, give information about its benefits and potential risks through proper labeling and education.

2.4. Making the Technology Accessible and Fair