Using such resources, biohackers can determine the specific DNA parts needed to reprogram cells. They also utilise used lab equipment acquired online from Amazon, eBay and other online sources, ranging from PCR thermocyclers that replicate DNA segment copies to Pyrex test tubes and micropipettes.
Other online resources include knowledge repositories like openwetware.org, diybio.org and dnahack.com which enable the dissemination of knowledge, projects and best practices to the wider community, from novices all the way to seasoned biohacking experts.
"DARPA wants to help biotech startups skip the red tape around government grants, offering up to $700,000 in funding to with a two-page application."
But what exactly is involved in synthetic biology? Briefly, it is human designed life, using computerised gene sequencing strands of artificial DNA and associated proteins. It can involve "gene shuffling" or "whole genome construction," using complex algorithm's involving millions of variants.
These processes are neither risk free nor benign; they essentially involve the creation of novel life forms that could or would not exist naturally. Although experts have written extensively on the subject there is no dedicated international or national regulation of the associated processes, nor have the complex ethical, social, environmental or legal implications been dealt with. Oversight remains unaddressed and absent.