Scientists warn of risks from lab-created mirror bacteria to life on Earth

mirror.co.uk

Scientists have raised alarms about "mirror bacteria," which could pose significant risks to life on Earth. These bacteria are created using "left-handed" DNA, differing from the "right-handed" DNA found in all known life. While the technology to create mirror bacteria is still a decade away, researchers warn that if these organisms were released, humans and animals would lack immunity. They could cause severe infections due to their unfamiliar biological interactions. The scientists urge caution, advocating for a pause in mirror bacteria research while allowing studies on mirror molecules with potential medical benefits. They emphasize the need for a global discussion on the implications of this research.


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Timeline:

    [4.1]
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    84d 4h
    [4.6]
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    84d 10h
    [4.9]
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    86d 1h
    [5.0]
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    88d 3h
    [4.8]
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    88d 13h
    [5.1]
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    89d 6h
    [5.0]
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    89d 21h
    [5.0]
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    90d 9h
    [4.8]
    Scientists urge global pause on synthetic life research to address potential health risks (zmescience.com)
    90d 16h
    [3.2]
    Scientists urge pause on research into synthetic 'mirror bacteria' due to potential risks (dailymail.co.uk)
    90d 20h
    [4.3]
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    91d 1h
    [3.5]
    Scientists raise alarms over lab-created mirror bacteria posing health risks (firstpost.com)
    91d 2h
    [3.7]
    Scientists warn of risks from lab-created mirror bacteria to life on Earth (mirror.co.uk)
    91d 3h
    [4.7]
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    91d 13h
    [4.4]
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    91d 20h