Overview

As iGEMers from SMU-Union-China, we firmly believe that the power of synthetic biology stems not only from individual teams' independent exploration, but also from open collaboration and knowledge sharing across teams and throughout society. Therefore, our goal extends beyond completing our own project research; we aspire to make substantive contributions to the global synthetic biology community and the iGEM competition community.

Through systematic planning across all project areas, our contributions focus on four dimensions: standardized components, optimized methodologies, innovative models, and responsible timelines.

As iGEMers, our mission is to collectively push the boundaries of science and technology while paving the way for our peers. We look forward to joining forces with innovators worldwide to shape a more open, collaborative, and responsible future for synthetic biology!

Wet lab

Parts

We have designed and characterised high-quality BioBrick standardised components, which we believe will benefit future iGEM teams. Furthermore, we have experimentally validated the functionality of existing parts. The table below details the parts designed and validated by our team.

Protocols

We have designed and compiled a comprehensive experimental protocol for wet-lab experiments in synthetic biology, specifically targeting the transformation, preparation, and growth characteristics of engineered bacteria, as well as functional validation against target viruses. Concurrently, we optimized certain experimental parameters to enhance success rates and efficiency. This protocol serves as a sound reference for future iGEM teams undertaking bacterial genetic engineering projects.

Additionally, we have learned that many iGEM teams require experiments measuring growth curves. However, continuous 24-hour growth curve measurements do disrupt normal physiological rhythms. To address this, we have developed a method to segment this experiment into multiple measurement intervals. Comparing data from this approach with 24-hour continuous measurements revealed no significant differences between the two methods. This segmented approach can therefore serve as a viable experimental solution to meet these requirements.

Taking a two-day measurement example, our improved method is as follows:

• Day 1: Conduct continuous measurement for 12 hours following standard protocol. For instance, measure OD600 values from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on measurement day.
• At 9:00 PM, re-inoculate the corresponding colony using the original inoculum:medium ratio of 1:100. Incubate overnight by shaking until 10:00 AM the next day (13 hours).
• At 10:00 AM the next day, the measured value is considered the 13-hour value.
• Subsequent measurements from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM capture values for hours 14 through 24.
• Analyze the colony's 24-hour growth pattern and generate scientific plots based on OD600 values.

Below is our demonstration video.

Model

An Open-Source Multiscale Modelling Framework: A Reusable Toolkit for Therapeutic Design and Epidemiological Assessment

We present an integrated, multi-scale modeling framework that connects protein-level antibody-antigen interaction analysis, microbial growth dynamics, and population-level infectious disease transmission modeling. Built entirely with open-source tools , this framework is fully reproducible, modular, and extensible.

This serves as a reusable and adaptable toolkit for future iGEM teams working on therapeutic design, synthetic biology burden assessment, or epidemiological evaluation.

Human Practice

Public Science Communication: Using Social Media to Break Down Barriers to Scientific Understanding

We established a multi-platform social media matrix encompassing Instagram, WeChat Official Accounts, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin. Through multiple series of educational content, we disseminated knowledge on synthetic biology, influenza viruses and prevention measures, alongside tailored influenza prevention kits for diverse demographics. This initiative reached over ten thousand individuals, significantly enhancing public awareness and understanding of these critical areas.

Educational Materials Development: From Classroom to Practice, Building a Diverse Educational Support System

We designed distinct science education programmes and teaching materials tailored to all age groups, forming a comprehensive educational cycle that integrates theory with practice. Additionally, we developed synthetic biology-themed games to facilitate learning through entertainment. These science education programmes and teaching materials have been well-received by the public, significantly advancing the popularisation and development of synthetic biology.

Special Groups Focus: Removing Barriers to Make Science Accessible

We focus on the scientific journey of minority groups, continually addressing challenges encountered in daily life. Through in-depth research, we have identified unique obstacles faced by different communities and designed tailored support programmes to meet their specific needs, ensuring scientific resources reach more marginalised groups. We assisted them in bridging information gaps and removing barriers, thereby advancing the development of an inclusive society.

• We have paid particular attention to women affected by influenza, researching their specific preventative needs during pregnancy and addressing the challenges faced by those in caregiving roles who are unable to rest.
• We developed educational materials featuring audio guides and sign language videos for special needs groups.
• We also addressed the needs of individuals with autism, Alzheimer's disease, and mental health concerns by creating tailored science education kits.
• We established an information platform for international students to facilitate their integration into local life.
• We travelled to economically underdeveloped regions to bring scientific advancements to those most in need.

iGEM Community Development: Fostering Collaboration Within the Global Synthetic Biology Community

We actively participated in the iGEM South China Exchange Meeting, the IGBA Greater Bay Area Industry-Academia-Research Conference, and the CCIC Synthetic Biology Forum, gaining valuable insights through these exchanges. Transitioning from participants to organisers, we hosted an iGBA Exchange Meeting to provide a platform for collaboration among more teams. Concurrently, we partnered with teams from MUST, NNU, HZAU, and CUG to collectively build our iGEM community.

Promoting Synthetic Biology Legislation in China: Supporting the Development of a Scientific Regulatory Framework

The rapid advancement of synthetic biology hinges upon a robust legal regulatory framework. We recognise that China's legislative landscape in this field still exhibits gaps in certain domains and ambiguities in regulatory standards. Consequently, we have undertaken:

• Legislative research
• Policy recommendations
• Drafting of legislation
• Expert consultations
• To inform policy formulation and facilitate the enactment of relevant legislation.

Legislation governing synthetic biology will bring greater convenience to all relevant scientists and iGEMers, thereby providing an overarching driving force for the discipline's advancement.