Emily Leproust Joins SynBioBeta 2025 + Breakthroughs in Gene Therapy and Cancer Research

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This week’s Digest highlights the trailblazers redefining synthetic biology’s frontiers. We’re thrilled to welcome Emily Leproust, CEO of Twist Bioscience, to SynBioBeta 2025, where she’ll share her vision for scaling DNA synthesis technology to drive advancements in medicine and agriculture. Meanwhile, Drew Berry’s latest molecular animation reveals the intricate beauty of DNA repair.

In biotech news, bioengineered yeast are poised to transform drug delivery, while Concinnity Genetics is advancing the safety of gene therapies with AI-powered RNA control systems. From shutting down cancer’s antigen escape trick to Stanford’s development of needle-free, topical vaccines, breakthroughs are paving the way for smarter treatments. Plus, innovations in brain-targeting nanoparticles, funding for biosensor AI, and protein design competitions remind us that synthetic biology is unlocking solutions across industries.

Since we know that many of you will be busy celebrating this festive time of year next week, we at SynBioBeta wanted to take a moment now to wish you all the Happiest of Holidays and the Very Best for the New Year!!!

Join us at SynBioBeta 2025, May 5-8, to explore the latest in synthetic biology. We're excited to welcome pioneering leaders redefining biotechnology and genetic engineering. Attend groundbreaking sessions and unparalleled networking opportunities. Discover the future of biotech with top innovators at SynBioBeta 2025!

We are delighted to welcome Emily Leproust, CEO of Twist Bioscience to SynBioBeta 2025!

Emily's pioneering work in synthetic DNA production is not just impressive; it’s essential for the next wave of breakthroughs in multiple sectors. With her leadership, Twist Bioscience is at the forefront of creating scalable solutions that could shape the future of medicine and agriculture.

Don’t miss her compelling insights on driving innovation through DNA synthesis technology this May in San Jose!

DNA Break Repair by Homologous Recombination

Molecular animator, Drew Berry, shared with us a new video he recently released, which presents the "Mind-boggling mechanism of DNA Break Repair by Homologous Recombination. This process happens 10-50 times a day in each one of your ten trillion human cells," he noted. "Everything we are discovering about how our cells work is a deep rabbit hole of wonders!"

And if you didn't see Drew's SynBioBeta 2024 Keynote Presentation, you really are missing out. The animations are spectacular!

Bioengineered Yeast Are the Future of Drug Delivery

Scientists at NUS Medicine have reprogrammed yeast to revolutionize drug delivery, promising smarter and more efficient treatments.

Gene Control Startup Concinnity Secures £3M Seed Funding to Advance Gene Therapy Safety

Using a combination of AI and synthetic biology, Concinnity Genetics is developing RNA-based systems that enable precise post-dosing control of gene therapies.

The Great Cancer Escape: How Scientists Are Shutting Down a Key Trick

For years, cancer cells have used antigen escape to hide from CAR T cell therapy. A new study reveals how YTHDF2 fuels this survival trick—and how researchers are fighting back.