From digital (0/1) to the world of genomes (A/T/G/C)

We at Smartcell & Design are working to create new societies and industries by utilizing highly functionally designed smart cells, achieved through technologies like genome editing, while redefining the future challenges and values currently envisioned.

Our members include researchers participating in the GP-write initiative mentioned earlier, cutting-edge genome editing venture companies, and the world's largest technology accelerator, Plug and Play. We are composed of a wide range of companies and personnel, both specialists and non-specialists. Armed with our global network and the breakthrough capability to transcend boundaries into different fields and industries, we aim to create innovative businesses.

Unlocking biological potential at the genomic level

Since ancient times, humanity has traditionally embraced the timeless forces of nature. Entering this century, rapidly advancing natural sciences are unlocking the astonishing potential of living organisms at the genomic level, introducing new concepts across every field—from daily life to contemporary art.

The genome serves as the operating system of life. Its application is expected to expand beyond medicine into various industrial sectors. Through futuristic collaborations between nature, science, art, and the information industry, the market size is projected to grow rapidly.

This smart cell industry is projected to become an 80 trillion yen market within the bioeconomy, estimated to reach 200 trillion yen by 2030 (OECD research), and will permeate society significantly as its market size expands.

Innovations in Genome Technology

Recent advances in genome technology have been remarkable. CRISPR-Cas9※1, known as a revolutionary genome editing technology, enables precise modification of target genes without relying on chance. Furthermore, technologies developed from this, such as the ability to "Undo" genome edits or convert genes into fuel to control heredity, have emerged, demonstrating tremendous progress in debugging technologies for genome design.

On the other hand, for large genomes like those of eukaryotes, innovations in genome synthesis and long-strand DNA synthesis technology have not yet advanced significantly. Research and development in transnational initiatives like the GP-write project mentioned at the outset are anticipated. In fact, Dentsu Inc. is also exploring DNA synthesis efficiency and DNA storage business opportunities with Twist Bioscience in the US. This movement extends beyond bio-related companies.

※1 CRISPR-Cas9 … CRISPR is an acquired immune system found in bacteria that incorporates and stores sequences of foreign DNA, such as invading viruses, within the genome. When the same virus later invades, an enzyme called Cas-9 uses the information collected within the CRISPR to cut and destroy the virus-derived DNA. This mechanism enables the precise cutting of targeted DNA or the incorporation of new DNA.

Read/Write Industrialization

Various services aimed at reading DNA—that is, analyzing it—have entered the DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) market and are now readily accessible to the general public.

Meanwhile, industries leveraging DNA writing—technologies for editing or synthesizing DNA—are not lagging behind. Examples include companies like Amyris and Ginkgo Bioworks, which use microbes to produce chemical products, with active investment and development underway toward industrialization.

Additionally, the US-based biotech conglomerate Intrexon has developed, cultivated, and sold non-browning apples; developed gene drive technology to eradicate disease-carrying mosquitoes; and manufactures and sells genetically modified salmon that grow twice as fast and yield three times the meat. By bringing together multiple core and applied technologies under its umbrella, Intrexon is attempting end-to-end industrialization.

Furthermore, genomics is deeply intertwined with the latest technological trends like AI, IoT, and big data. It is expected to permeate rapidly across various boundaries, transcending disciplines and reaching both specialists and non-specialists alike.

The Potential of Smart Cells

In the world of genome editing and synthesis, the "DBTL cycle" (Design⇒Build⇒Test⇒Learn) is used to design organisms with new functions. For example, designing microorganisms with highly functional metabolic pathways to produce various substances could potentially end the long-standing problems of the petroleum economy.

Furthermore, by leveraging DNA's self-replicating ability, it might be possible to construct a non-deterministic universal Turing machine (a computer capable of computational processes where the next state is not uniquely determined), said to be faster than quantum computers and eagerly awaited for realization. This could lead to the birth of industrial products far beyond current imagination.

Research is also advancing on industrially safe cells, such as infection-resistant cells and cells with no impact on the human body, referred to as "Ultra-Safe Cell Lines."

Why Dentsu Inc.?

While clarifying the principles of genome construction could bring significant benefits to human society, misuse could also lead to substantial harm. Furthermore, industrialization would be difficult even if technically feasible unless society develops the necessary framework to accept these developments, including addressing ethical aspects and establishing biosecurity measures.

Therefore, we recognize the importance of promoting activities that support the academic and technical aspects enabling genome construction at innovative costs, while also designing communication that makes genome science—currently concentrated among specialized journals and papers—understandable to the general public.

At Smartcell&Design, we bring perspectives cultivated by Dentsu Inc. in communication, such as: - Which country's research institutions will perform synthesis? (This could lead to information consolidation, potentially revealing our objectives) What about delivery times and warranty for defects? Can it be produced cheaply? What are the definitions and standardization of expressions and easy-to-understand language that address consumer concerns? We will continue activities to "translate" genomics for society by bringing these perspectives to the genomics field.

We will introduce specific initiatives starting with the second session.