Lifeboat Foundation: Safeguarding Humanity
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Category: bioengineering

Working in the field of genetics is a bizarre experience. No one seems to be interested in the most interesting applications of their research.

We’ve spent the better part of the last two decades unravelling exactly how the human genome works and which specific letter changes in our DNA affect things like diabetes risk or college graduation rates. Our knowledge has advanced to the point where, if we had a safe and reliable means of modifying genes in embryos, we could literally create superbabies. Children that would live multiple decades longer than their non-engineered peers, have the raw intellectual horsepower to do Nobel prize worthy scientific research, and very rarely suffer from depression or other mental health disorders.

The scientific establishment, however, seems to not have gotten the memo. If you suggest we engineer the genes of future generations to make their lives better, they will often make some frightened noises, mention “ethical issues” without ever clarifying what they mean, or abruptly change the subject. It’s as if humanity invented electricity and decided the only interesting thing to do with it was make washing machines.

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Then came gene targeting technologies, like CRISPR, over 10 years ago. With these technologies we can delete, modify, add, or change any gene in any organism’s DNA and it’s easy and cheap. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Where are my Pokémon?

The scientific industrial complex is fundamentally broken. Scientists are trapped in a system of their own creation that values paywalled publications over real progress. If they can’t even make knowledge freely available, how can they be expected to push the boundaries of innovation? A field built on gatekeeping will never lead the future.

The real question isn’t whether we can do this. The real question is what comes next. The first steps are already happening in the lab of my new company, the Los Angeles Project (LAP). We are learning to harvest large amounts of embryos and eggs from different animal species so we can understand the development of life on a scale no one has tried before. We are editing genes and injecting DNA with micro-precision, sculpting biology at its most fundamental level.

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Unlock the full potential of CRISPR technology while ensuring precision and safety! In this video, we dive deep into the science of CRISPR gene editing, explore the challenges of off-target effects, and reveal cutting-edge strategies to minimize risks.
📌 Key Topics Covered:

1️⃣ What is CRISPR?

Discover the origins of CRISPR-Cas9, its revolutionary impact on genetics, agriculture, and medicine, and the latest advancements like base editing and AI-driven optimization.
2️⃣ Understanding Off-Target Effects.

Learn why unintended DNA modifications occur, how gRNA promiscuity and nuclease activity contribute to risks, and proven mitigation strategies (e.g., HiFi Cas9, dual gRNA systems).

Continue reading “Genome Editing with CRISPR: How to Effectively Minimize Off-Target Effects” | >

Plant-derived alkaloids are an important class of natural products with various pharmacological properties1,2,3,4, including Rotundine (L-tetrahydropalmatine), berberine, morphine, colchicine, galanthamine and hyoscyamine (Fig. 1a). Many of them have been used as traditional medicines in China, Native America, India and the Islamic region. For instance, Rotundine was first isolated from Corydalis5, a plant that has been used as traditional Chinese herbal medicine for over a thousand years, known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-addictive, and antitumor activities6,7,8. Today, it also serves as an alternative to anxiolytic and sedative drugs from the addictive benzodiazepine group, as well as analgesics9. However, similar to many plant-derived natural products10,11, the commercial use of plant-derived alkaloids still mainly relies on extraction from medicinal plants with low abundance12,13,14,15, which is further affected by climate change, cultivation methods and location. Moreover, due to the lack of appropriate functional groups, derivatization of naturally occurring alkaloids to increase structural complexity and diversity through chemical methods remains challenging, restricting further drug development. Although chemical synthesis methods have been developed to overcome these issues, they often involve harsh conditions and heavy-metal catalysts16,17. In addition, the structural complexity of alkaloids, with their chiral centers and regioselective modifications, often results in low yields.

With the elucidation of the biosynthetic pathways of alkaloids and advancements in synthetic biology18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27, many efforts have been made to biosynthesize natural and unnatural alkaloids in microorganisms, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35 (Fig. 1b). However, challenges such as the complexity of their biosynthetic pathways, the difficulties in expressing plant-derived P450 enzyme36,37,38 and berberine bridge enzyme (BBE)29,34,39,40, and the cytotoxicity from the accumulation of alkaloids or its intermediates34,41 always results in low production titers28,29,34, such as 16.9 mg L-1 production in berberine and 68.6 mg L-1 production in Rotundine in engineered yeasts, which still lack commercial viability. In fact, this remains a common manufacturing challenge for the heterologous biosynthesis of many plant-derived alkaloids in microorganisms.

Recently, it was reported that a designed nine-enzyme catalytic cascade enabled the efficient biosynthesis of the HIV drug islatravir42, and therapeutic oligonucleotides could be produced through an enzyme cascade in a single operation43. These seminal examples suggest that the designed enzyme cascades will revolutionize drug synthesis and development. Furthermore, specific enzymes can control the stereo-and chemoselectivity of chiral compounds44,45. Importantly, the use of modular “plug-and-play” strategy allows the easy incorporation or removal of enzymes to tailor the cascade for synthesizing different target compounds46,47, thereby introducing structural complexity and diversity. As for plant-derived natural products, steps catalyzed by enzymes that are difficult to express in engineered cells or that are still not identified can be bypassed through the careful selection of substrates46, making the process more efficient or feasible.

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Scientists are exploring gene editing as a way to correct trisomy at the cellular level. Using CRISPR-Cas9, researchers successfully removed extra copies of chromosome 21 in Down syndrome cell lines, restoring normal gene expression.

This breakthrough suggests that, with further development, similar approaches could be applied to neurons and glial cells, offering a potential treatment for those with the condition.

Gene Editing for Trisomy Treatment.

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At the threshold of a century poised for unprecedented transformations, we find ourselves at a crossroads unlike any before. The convergence of humanity and technology is no longer a distant possibility; it has become a tangible reality that challenges our most fundamental conceptions of what it means to be human.

This article seeks to explore the implications of this new era, in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a central player. Are we truly on the verge of a symbiotic fusion, or is the conflict between the natural and the artificial inevitable?

The prevailing discourse on AI oscillates between two extremes: on one hand, some view this technology as a powerful extension of human capabilities, capable of amplifying our creativity and efficiency. On the other, a more alarmist narrative predicts the decline of human significance in the face of relentless machine advancement. Yet, both perspectives seem overly simplistic when confronted with the intrinsic complexity of this phenomenon. Beyond the dichotomy of utopian optimism and apocalyptic pessimism, it is imperative to critically reflect on AI’s cultural, ethical, and philosophical impact on the social fabric, as well as the redefinition of human identity that this technological revolution demands.

Since the dawn of civilization, humans have sought to transcend their natural limitations through the creation of tools and technologies. From the wheel to the modern computer, every innovation has been seen as a means to overcome the physical and cognitive constraints imposed by biology. However, AI represents something profoundly different: for the first time, we are developing systems that not only execute predefined tasks but also learn, adapt, and, to some extent, think.

This transition should not be underestimated. While previous technologies were primarily instrumental—serving as controlled extensions of human will—AI introduces an element of autonomy that challenges the traditional relationship between subject and object. Machines are no longer merely passive tools; they are becoming active partners in the processes of creation and decision-making. This qualitative leap radically alters the balance of power between humans and machines, raising crucial questions about our position as the dominant species.

But what does it truly mean to “be human” in a world where the boundaries between mind and machine are blurring? Traditionally, humanity has been defined by attributes such as consciousness, emotion, creativity, and moral decision-making. Yet, as AI advances, these uniquely human traits are beginning to be replicated—albeit imperfectly—within algorithms. If a machine can imitate creativity or exhibit convincing emotional behavior, where does our uniqueness lie?

This challenge is not merely technical; it strikes at the core of our collective identity. Throughout history, humanity has constructed cultural and religious narratives that placed us at the center of the cosmos, distinguishing us from animals and the forces of nature. Today, that narrative is being contested by a new technological order that threatens to displace us from our self-imposed pedestal. It is not so much the fear of physical obsolescence that haunts our reflections but rather the anxiety of losing the sense of purpose and meaning derived from our uniqueness.

Despite these concerns, many AI advocates argue that the real opportunity lies in forging a symbiotic partnership between humans and machines. In this vision, technology is not a threat to humanity but an ally that enhances our capabilities. The underlying idea is that AI can take on repetitive or highly complex tasks, freeing humans to engage in activities that truly require creativity, intuition, and—most importantly—emotion.

Concrete examples of this approach can already be seen across various sectors. In medicine, AI-powered diagnostic systems can process vast amounts of clinical data in record time, allowing doctors to focus on more nuanced aspects of patient care. In the creative industry, AI-driven text and image generation software are being used as sources of inspiration, helping artists and writers explore new ideas and perspectives. In both cases, AI acts as a catalyst, amplifying human abilities rather than replacing them.

Furthermore, this collaboration could pave the way for innovative solutions in critical areas such as environmental sustainability, education, and social inclusion. For example, powerful neural networks can analyze global climate patterns, assisting scientists in predicting and mitigating natural disasters. Personalized algorithms can tailor educational content to the specific needs of each student, fostering more effective and inclusive learning. These applications suggest that AI, far from being a destructive force, can serve as a powerful instrument to address some of the greatest challenges of our time.

However, for this vision to become reality, a strategic approach is required—one that goes beyond mere technological implementation. It is crucial to ensure that AI is developed and deployed ethically, respecting fundamental human rights and promoting collective well-being. This involves regulating harmful practices, such as the misuse of personal data or the indiscriminate automation of jobs, as well as investing in training programs that prepare people for the new demands of the labor market.

While the prospect of symbiotic fusion is hopeful, we cannot ignore the inherent risks of AI’s rapid evolution. As these technologies become more sophisticated, so too does the potential for misuse and unforeseen consequences. One of the greatest dangers lies in the concentration of power in the hands of a few entities, whether they be governments, multinational corporations, or criminal organizations.

Recent history has already provided concerning examples of this phenomenon. The manipulation of public opinion through algorithm-driven social media, mass surveillance enabled by facial recognition systems, and the use of AI-controlled military drones illustrate how this technology can be wielded in ways that undermine societal interests.

Another critical risk in AI development is the so-called “alignment problem.” Even if a machine is programmed with good intentions, there is always the possibility that it misinterprets its instructions or prioritizes objectives that conflict with human values. This issue becomes particularly relevant in the context of autonomous systems that make decisions without direct human intervention. Imagine, for instance, a self-driving car forced to choose between saving its passenger or a pedestrian in an unavoidable collision. How should such decisions be made, and who bears responsibility for the outcome?

These uncertainties raise legitimate concerns about humanity’s ability to maintain control over increasingly advanced technologies. The very notion of scientific progress is called into question when we realize that accumulated knowledge can be used both for humanity’s benefit and its detriment. The nuclear arms race during the Cold War serves as a sobering reminder of what can happen when science escapes moral oversight.

Whether the future holds symbiotic fusion or inevitable conflict, one thing is clear: our understanding of human identity must adapt to the new realities imposed by AI. This adjustment will not be easy, as it requires confronting profound questions about free will, the nature of consciousness, and the essence of individuality.

One of the most pressing challenges is reconciling our increasing technological dependence with the preservation of human dignity. While AI can significantly enhance quality of life, there is a risk of reducing humans to mere consumers of automated services. Without a conscious effort to safeguard the emotional and spiritual dimensions of human experience, we may end up creating a society where efficiency outweighs empathy, and interpersonal interactions are replaced by cold, impersonal digital interfaces.

On the other hand, this very transformation offers a unique opportunity to rediscover and redefine what it means to be human. By delegating mechanical and routine tasks to machines, we can focus on activities that truly enrich our existence—art, philosophy, emotional relationships, and civic engagement. AI can serve as a mirror, compelling us to reflect on our values and aspirations, encouraging us to cultivate what is genuinely unique about the human condition.

Ultimately, the fate of our relationship with AI will depend on the choices we make today. We can choose to view it as an existential threat, resisting the inevitable changes it brings, or we can embrace the challenge of reinventing our collective identity in a post-humanist era. The latter, though more daring, offers the possibility of building a future where technology and humanity coexist in harmony, complementing each other.

To achieve this, we must adopt a holistic approach that integrates scientific, ethical, philosophical, and sociological perspectives. It also requires an open, inclusive dialogue involving all sectors of society—from researchers and entrepreneurs to policymakers and ordinary citizens. After all, AI is not merely a technical tool; it is an expression of our collective imagination, a reflection of our ambitions and fears.

As we gaze toward the horizon, we see a world full of uncertainties but also immense possibilities. The future is not predetermined; it will be shaped by the decisions we make today. What kind of social contract do we wish to establish with AI? Will it be one of domination or cooperation? The answer to this question will determine not only the trajectory of technology but the very essence of our existence as a species.

Now is the time to embrace our historical responsibility and embark on this journey with courage, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the values that make human life worth living.

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Copyright © 2025, Henrique Jorge

[ This article was originally published in Portuguese in SAPO’s technology section at: https://tek.sapo.pt/opiniao/artigos/a-sinfonia-do-amanha-tit…exao-seria ]

Researchers have engineered groups of robots that behave as smart materials with tunable shape and strength, mimicking living systems. “We’ve figured out a way for robots to behave more like a material,” said Matthew Devlin, a former doctoral researcher in the lab of University of California, Santa Barbara (USCB) mechanical engineering professor Elliot Hawkes, and the lead author of the article published in the journal Science.

Composed of individual, disk-shaped that look like small hockey pucks, the members of the collective are programmed to assemble themselves together into various forms with different material strengths.

One challenge of particular interest to the research team was creating a robotic material that could both be stiff and strong, yet be able to flow when a new form is needed. “Robotic materials should be able to take a shape and hold it” Hawkes explained, “but also able to selectively flow themselves into a new shape.” However, when robots are strongly held to each other in a group, it was not possible to reconfigure the group in a way that can flow and change shape at will. Until now.

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Silicon Valley elites are quietly appointing themselves ancestors of the future.

As American fertility rates continue to hit record lows — well below the “replacement rate” from one generation to the next — the pronatalism movement has found a foothold in the tech world.

Elon Musk — who apparently now has 13 children — has openly endorsed the movement, which believes in pumping out babies to fight societal collapse. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has said, “Of course I’m going to have a big family” and is investing in experimental fertility technology.

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