Experts warn of risks from synthetic mirror bacteria in new report
Leading scientists, including Nobel laureates, have called for a global halt to research on synthetic "mirror life" microbes. They warn these engineered organisms could evade immune defenses, leading to uncontrollable infections in humans, animals, and plants. A 299-page report details the risks of mirror bacteria, which are made from mirror-image molecules. Experts emphasize that these microbes could resist antibiotics and natural predators, making them difficult to contain or eradicate. While some researchers see potential benefits in mirror molecules for therapies and bioproduction, the report argues that the risks outweigh these advantages. The authors stress the need for a global discussion on the ethics and safety of creating such organisms.