In his latest book, genetic guru J. Craig Venter envisions a brave new world where DNA can be teleported between planets and where custom-made bacteria produce drugs, food and biofuel — but he also worries that do-it-yourself biohackers could spoil that vision.
“One of the concerns that I address in my book is this new emergence of do-it-at-home biology,” Venter told NBC News. “One important part of scientific training is that scientists learn the boundaries, the safety issues, how to properly deal with and dispose of chemicals and reagents.
“While it’s great at one level that there’s excitement and people wanting to do experiments at home, playing with things without the proper knowledge set and the proper training, I think, legitimately raises concerns for an increased chance of unintended consequences,” he said.
Read the full, original story here: Genomics pioneer Craig Venter warns about biohacker boo-boos
