Scientists Call for Moratorium on Mirror Bacteria

Scientists have raised alarms about the potential risks posed by 'mirror bacteria,' synthetic organisms with reversed molecular chirality. A group of 38 international experts, including Nobel laureates, warns that these organisms could evade natural immune defenses and disrupt ecosystems, posing an 'unprecedented risk' to global health. Current research efforts aim to create these microorganisms within a decade, although their practical development remains speculative. The scientific community calls for a moratorium on mirror bacteria research until a thorough risk assessment is conducted. This initiative is to ensure that scientific progress aligns with public safety, as these microbes could potentially spread unchecked through ecosystems. The reports emphasize the need for a global dialogue to address the ethical and safety concerns associated with synthetic biology.