Xenobiology: Exploring the Boundaries of Life Beyond DNA
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Science and Technology (Biotechnology, Genetics, Synthetic Biology, Astrobiology).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (S&T): Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Awareness in the fields of Bio-technology. Xenobiology is a classic "emerging technology" topic.
Key Highlights from the News
Xenobiology: A new branch of science that studies how life with biological systems different from DNA and RNA (the basis of life on Earth) could be possible.
This Greek word means "the study of alien life." 👽
Main Research Goals:
Create organisms using extra DNA letters beyond the usual A, T, C, G.
Investigate if life is possible based on alternative solvents like methane or ammonia instead of water.
Practical Applications:
It can be used to create microorganisms capable of producing medicines and destroying toxic waste.
Biocontainment: These artificial organisms cannot survive in normal conditions outside the laboratory. This acts as a "genetic firewall" preventing them from escaping and harming nature.
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