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Programmable Planet

The Synthetic Biology Revolution
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Programmable Planet by Ted Anton explores the intersection of emerging technologies and biological science, delving into how programming can reshape our understanding of nature. The book considers the potential to rewrite biological processes, offering an exciting glimpse into innovations like genetic engineering and their implications for the future of our planet and species.
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Format: Hardback
$6699
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're curious about the future of bioscience and how living organisms can be reprogrammed like computers. The narrative explores cutting-edge research and interviews with visionary scientists striving to harness biological processes for advancements in fields like medicine and environmental sustainability.

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Programmable Planet is a grand tour through the world of synthetic biology, telling the stories of the colorful visionaries whose ideas are shaping discoveries. Ted Anton explores the field from its beginning in fighting malaria in Africa to the COVID vaccines and beyond.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A new science is reengineering the fabric of life. Synthetic biology offers bold new ways of manufacturing medicines, clothing, foods, fragrances, and fuels, often using microbe fermentation, much like brewing beer. The technology can help confront climate change, break down industrial pollutants, and fight novel viruses.

Today, researchers are manipulating life forms and automating evolution to create vegetarian "meat," renewable construction materials, and cancer treatments. In the process, they are changing our concept of what life science can achieve. Is this a new industrial and information revolution—or dangerous tinkering that could unleash unintended consequences?

Programmable Planet is a grand tour through the world of synthetic biology, telling the stories of the colourful visionaries whose ideas are shaping discoveries. Ted Anton explores the field from its beginning in fighting malaria in Africa to the COVID vaccines and beyond. Covering medical and agricultural triumphs and blunders, he examines successes in energy production, plant gene editing, and chemical manufacturing, as well as the most controversial attempts at human gene enhancement.

This book reports from the front lines of research, showing policymakers' struggle to stay abreast of the technologies they aim to regulate. Even-handed, lively, and informative, Programmable Planet gives a glimpse of the promise and problems of a new biology-based industry.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Programmable Planet is praised for its engaging exploration of synthetic biology, blending human stories with scientific advancements. The book is noted for its incisive look at both the historical and future implications of engineering life. Reviews highlight its captivating storytelling and the importance of understanding the promise and risks associated with this rapidly evolving field.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780231205108

Publisher: Columbia University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 25 July 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Columbia University Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 392

About the Author

Ted Anton is professor of English at DePaul University. He is the author of several books, including The Longevity Seekers: Science, Business, and the Fountain of Youth (2013).

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