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Mirror cells could threaten life on Earth. Why are we building them?
NPR • • science
Key Points:
- Earthly life exhibits molecular "handedness," with DNA twisting right-handedly and proteins favoring left-handed chemistry, forming the basis of biological rules.
- Scientists have explored creating mirror versions of life with reversed molecular handedness, but current technology cannot achieve this at the cellular level and likely won't for at least a decade.
- A group of scientists has issued a 299-page technical report urging a halt to research on mirror life due to concerns about potentially devastating impacts on Earth's life.
- Science reporter Carl Zimmer discusses the implications of mirror cells and the ethical considerations surrounding this controversial research in a recent NPR Short Wave episode.
- The episode encourages listeners to explore further through Carl Zimmer's article and invites engagement on other controversial scientific topics via NPR's contact channels.
