Flagship3 - Leveraging synthetic biology for biomedicine

Synthetic biomedicine is a rapidly evolving field where actionable discoveries are being made in all kingdoms of life. Helmholtz researchers are already making key innovations in synthetic biology and biological engineering, particularly in genome, protein, and mammalian cell engineering and smart delivery vehicles, as evidenced by numerous publications, patents, start-ups, clinical translation, participation in national and international networks, clusters, and research centers. Specifically, specialized generative AI models combined with directed evolution will enable the engineering of tailored proteins, biomolecules, and genetic programs, rigorously validated by structural biology, multiscale molecular imaging, and multi-omics analyses for efficacy and safety. Reporter cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells will provide key insights into disease-relevant tissue processes that will inform future biological engineering solutions such as tissue engineering and ‘smart’ implants. Further reaching, diagnostic and therapeutic cells, such as immune cells with engineered receptors or neuronal progenitor cells equipped with genetically controlled molecular sensors such as MRI-PET or optoacoustic tracers (Flagship 2) and actuators, will enable remote spatio-temporal interrogation and prevention of disease-causing aberrations, provide real-time insights into disease progression and enable early intervention.