Regenesis: How Synthetic Biology Will Reinvent Nature and Ourselves

George M. Church, Ed Regis

Basic Books, Apr 8, 2014 - Science - 304 pages

A Harvard biologist and master inventor explores how new biotechnologies will enable us to bring species back from the dead, unlock vast supplies of renewable energy, and extend human life.
In Regenesis, George Church and science writer Ed Regis explore the possibilities of the emerging field of synthetic biology. Synthetic biology, in which living organisms are selectively altered by modifying substantial portions of their genomes, allows for the creation of entirely new species of organisms. These technologies-far from the out-of-control nightmare depicted in science fiction-have the power to improve human and animal health, increase our intelligence, enhance our memory, and even extend our life span. A breathtaking look at the potential of this world-changing technology, Regenesis is nothing less than a guide to the future of life.

About the author

George M. Church is professor of genetics at the Harvard Medical School and member of the Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering.
Ed Regis is author of seven science books, most recently What Is Life? Investigating the Nature of Life in the Age of Synthetic Biology.

Bibliographic information

• Title: Regenesis: How Synthetic Biology Will Reinvent Nature and Ourselves
• Authors: George M. Church, Ed Regis
• Edition: illustrated, reprint
• Publisher: Basic Books, 2014
• ISBN: 0465075703, 9780465075706
• Length: 304 pages
• Subjects: Medical / Biotechnology; Medical / Genetics; Science / Biotechnology; Science / Life Sciences / Biology; Science / Life Sciences / Genetics & Genomics