Synthetic DNA research, along with advances in gene editing and AI-powered biology, is opening the door to a new era in healthcare. From designing targeted treatments to spotting diseases earlier and personalizing care, these tools promise to slow the effects of aging and make the world healthier.
While synthetic biology and AI promise medical breakthroughs, they also raise alarming risks. As AI learns to read and rewrite our DNA, the potential for misuse — biohacking, privacy breaches, and genetic discrimination — grows. We're rewriting life's code without clear rules, oversight, or protections. This isn't just another innovation — it's a high-stakes gamble.
There is a 50% chance that at least 34 gene-edited babies will have been born worldwide by the end of 2029, according to the Metaculus prediction community.