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“Your touch brought forth an incandescent glow.” —— Taylor Swift

Domestic​

iGEM Lecture in Beijing University of Chemical Technology​

During the iGEM Lecture, team members Ao She, Yinhao Wang, and Zibin Chu introduced key technologies in the development of synthetic biology, such as DNA synthesis, gene editing, and nucleic acid self-assembly, in a clear and understandable manner. They also provided a detailed overview of the iGEM competition, including its basic content, timeline, and core concepts. By actively addressing the questions of curious and enthusiastic students, they significantly contributed to fostering interest in synthetic biology among a broader audience of students.

Science Popularization Event in Asia-Pacific Experimental School of Beijing Normal University (For elementary and middle school students)​

Three members of BUCT-China 2024, along with other undergraduate volunteers from Beijing University of Chemical Technology, designed and executed more than 20 hands-on exploration and experience projects for nearly 1,600 students and teachers from grades one through seven. By integrating science into experiments and games, they uncovered the "extraordinary" in the everyday, leading the children to experience the multifaceted allure of science, art, and fun through exploration and discovery!

BUCT-China 2024 meticulously designed several scientific games, including an experience of the cyanotype process, a demonstration of the journey of capsules through gastric and intestinal fluids, and an experiment showcasing the impact of pH on anthocyanins.

During the cyanotype experience, students evenly applied the cyanotype solution onto paper and waited for it to dry slightly before placing selected plant leaves on top. As the paper transformed from dark green to deep blue under sunlight, students were captivated by the beauty of chemical reactions. In the demonstration, students gained a visual understanding of the structure and function of the human digestive system, increasing their awareness and importance of digestive health, with the aim of conveying beneficial health guidance and advice.

The pH changes allowed anthocyanins to exhibit different color characteristics, due to their molecular structure's high sensitivity to acidity and alkalinity. This property brings a vibrant array of colors to the plant kingdom, stimulating students' interest and curiosity in science.

In addition to the experiments, we used MicroDetect as an example to introduce students to the basic concepts of synthetic biology and its applications in the medical field. We compared the limitations of traditional cancer screening methods, and students expressed strong interest in the prospects of new molecular diagnostic technologies for early cancer detection.

Science Popularization Event in Beijing Ritan High School (For senior high school student)​

At Beijing Ritan High School, four members of BUCT-China 2024 organized a foundational experiment for first-year students, focusing on environmental microbial observation. The experiment took place in the tissue culture room, with a total of 32 students participating.

BUCT-China 2024 organized an outreach event focused on synthetic biology and precision medicine, leveraging the school's advantage of having a biosafety cabinet in its laboratory. The aim was to ignite students' interest in life sciences and guide them in contemplating the potential applications of synthetic biology in the future of healthcare.

Team member Tianru He showcased the innovative applications of gene editing technology through a video presentation, allowing students to experience the wonders of genetic engineering firsthand. Meanwhile, team member Ao She used a series of relatable examples to explain the concept of precision medicine. To make the outreach more relatable to high school students, the team also designed interactive sessions and Q&A segments, encouraging students to ask bold questions about the field of bioengineering and share their perspectives with team members. Many students expressed that this outreach method was incredibly beneficial, broadening their horizons and sparking their interest in pursuing scientific research.

In addition, the students also performed lab work on environmental microbial cultures based on the instructions of our team members. The experiment aimed to observe microorganisms from air, water samples, and everyday items. Sterile culture media were prepared in advance, and students were tasked with collecting microbial strains, inoculating them into different media, and incubating the cultures at suitable temperatures for 48 hours. The growth of microorganisms was observed, and strains were identified based on their morphological characteristics, color, colony appearance, and by-products. Essential materials provided included sterilized culture media, cotton swabs, and sealing films for culture plates. Additional materials such as a sterile hood, alcohol lamp, and microwave were required for the experiment.

The entire outreach presentation lasted approximately two hours, receiving high praise from the school's faculty, who noted, "This was a clear, efficient, and meaningful presentation." This successful outreach activity not only achieved its intended goals but also garnered a group of potential supporters for iGEM and BUCT-China 2024, showcasing the enthusiasm and positive attitude of the younger generation towards scientific and technological development.

Science Popularization Event with Overseas students who studied at Beijing University of Chemical Technology (For undergraduate and postgraduate students)​

BUCT-China 2024's member Ao She participated in the Sino-Foreign Science and Technology Innovation Forum at the School of International Education, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, where he delivered a presentation on MicroDetect and precision medicine. The forum is an important event aimed at fostering exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and foreign students, sharing platforms for scientific and technological innovation, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and integration.

BUCT-China 2024 showcased the MicroDetect project at the conference, highlighting the potential applications of a microRNA diagnostic platform combined with polymerase-mediated signal amplification and CRISPR technology for early cancer detection. The presentation contrasted this innovative approach with existing early cancer diagnostic methods, demonstrating its advantages in efficiency, speed, cost-effectiveness, sensitivity, and specificity.

The report presented by BUCT-China 2024 received recognition from both domestic and international experts, earning the Outstanding Presentation Award for its exceptional delivery. The team's presentation not only enhanced the international influence of Beijing University of Chemical Technology but also fostered communication and collaboration between Chinese and foreign students in the field of technological innovation. Furthermore, team members actively introduced the basic concepts of synthetic biology and its applications in medicine, aiming to contribute to the early diagnosis of cancer.

Looking ahead, BUCT-China 2024 will continue to play an active role in future technological innovation activities, strengthening cooperation and exchanges with outstanding teams both domestically and internationally, and further promoting the development of interdisciplinary research and innovative applications.

Science Popularization Event at the Scene of the third Synbio Challenges​

BUCT-China 2024 set up a display board to promote our project and raise awareness about the importance of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. We compared traditional cancer screening methods, highlighting their limitations, and explained how liquid biopsy technology can be utilized for screening. This demonstration showcased the promising application prospects of our project. Many students expressed strong interest in our cancer diagnostic application, leading to significant participation.

It is noteworthy that the outstanding performance and enthusiasm for synthetic biology exhibited by the members of BUCT-China 2024 have garnered attention and coverage from local media in the Guangming District. In front of the official media, the members of BUCT-China 2024 shared their insights on popular science education and their perspectives on the future development of synthetic biology. This series of reports not only enhanced the visibility and influence of BUCT-China 2024 but also provided us with a valuable platform to showcase our efforts and attract resources. Looking ahead, the members of BUCT-China 2024 will seize this competition as an opportunity to continue delving into the field of synthetic biology, striving for continuous innovation and breakthroughs.

Science Roadshow for freshmen at Beijing University of Chemical Technology​

During the September opening season at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, BUCT-China 2024 embraced the spirit of fostering new talent in scientific research by conducting a roadshow for new students. The event included distributing and explaining promotional materials designed for different genders, as well as allowing students to observe cancer tissue samples under a microscope. Additionally, we opened the School of International Education's Bio-Collaboration Laboratory, enabling newcomers to conduct simple microbiological experiments and practice microscopy. Many students were eager to engage further, initiating deeper discussions with team members, which attracted the attention of several faculty members and university leaders. The atmosphere was lively and harmonious.

Oversea​

Popularization of Science Event with kids in Kenya​

In light of the limited educational resources available in impoverished and disaster-stricken areas of Kenya, where children have difficulty accessing cutting-edge scientific knowledge, BUCT-China 2024 has decided to leverage online platforms. Collaborating with Yanjin Xue, who is volunteering with a local NGO, we aim to transcend geographical barriers and bring an extraordinary science popularization event to these children.

The event began by introducing the definition, development history, and fundamental principles of synthetic biology, providing participants with a foundational understanding of the subject. BUCT-China 2024 educated them on early cancer diagnosis, outlining the limitations of traditional cancer screening methods and showcasing the advantages of MicroDetect, which offers significant benefits to patients.

To foster engagement, the activity included a Q&A and discussion session that encouraged the children to participate actively by voicing their questions and insights. Team members patiently addressed their inquiries, enhancing the interactivity and enjoyment of the event.

The initiative successfully spread knowledge about synthetic biology to impoverished and disaster-stricken areas in Kenya, igniting interest and curiosity in biological sciences among participants. Both primary school students and staff from these regions highly praised the event, expressing that they gained valuable insights and hope for more similar educational activities in the future.

Looking ahead, BUCT-China 2024 will continue to focus on the educational needs of primary school students in Kenya’s impoverished and disaster-affected areas, consistently optimizing the content and format of online educational activities. Additionally, the team plans to strengthen collaborations with local educational institutions and charitable organizations to provide high-quality educational resources and services for students. Furthermore, the team will explore innovative methods and approaches for science popularization to enhance the fun and interactivity of future educational activities.

Popularization of Science Event with kids in Indonesia​

BUCT-China 2024 organized an innovative online science popularization event focused on synthetic biology for children in impoverished and disaster-stricken areas of East Jakarta, Indonesia. This event aims to stimulate the children's interest in biological sciences through the dissemination of scientific knowledge, broaden their horizons, and convey the positive message that science can transform lives.

BUCT-China 2024 has meticulously designed a science popularization program covering the fundamentals of synthetic biology, practical applications, and future prospects, ensuring that the content is both scientifically rigorous and engaging, making it suitable for the understanding of children in impoverished and disaster-affected areas.

Team member Yinhao Wang conducted a live video presentation in collaboration with volunteer teacher Camille, who was on-site at a shelter in East Jakarta, Indonesia. They delivered an exciting synthetic biology outreach activity, using simple and clear language to explain complex concepts. During the lecture, an interactive Q&A session was incorporated, allowing elementary school students to ask questions through the online platform. The team members patiently answered their inquiries, creating a positive and engaging atmosphere.

To provide a more visual demonstration of synthetic biology applications, the team also prepared experimental demonstration videos. By watching these videos, the students gained insights into the experimental processes and experienced the allure of science.

Through this online science outreach activity, children from impoverished and disaster-affected areas in East Jakarta, Indonesia, developed a preliminary understanding of cutting-edge technologies such as synthetic biology. Additionally, it sparked their interest and curiosity in science, with many expressing a desire to delve deeper into related knowledge in the future.

BUCT-China 2024's online science popularization event in East Jakarta was a resounding success, not only imparting scientific knowledge but also enhancing the children's thirst for learning. We believe that through continuous efforts and innovations, the light of science will illuminate the paths of more children's dreams.

Science Popularization Event with summer exchange students of King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (For undergraduate and postgraduate students)​

BUCT-China 2024's Yinhao Wang, along with six students from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang in Thailand, collaborated on various synthetic biology topics, fostering knowledge exchange and cooperation across different research directions.

BUCT-China 2024 invited Prof. Zhao Yang, our team’s PI, to give a presentation on synthetic biology to students from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang in Thailand. The presentation detailed the fundamental concepts of synthetic biology, research advancements, potential applications, and the challenges faced in the field. Following this, BUCT-China 2024 showcased the MicroDetect project, highlighting the latest research achievements in synthetic biology and the team’s multi-level signal amplification combined with a single-molecule platform for tumor marker detection.

Afterward, Professor Yang organized a tour of the biology laboratory for the Thai students, allowing them to gain firsthand insights into the practical operations and latest achievements in synthetic biology research. This visit fostered in-depth discussions and exchanges between faculty and students from both sides, exploring hot topics in the field of synthetic biology.

Through various forms of engagement, BUCT-China 2024 introduced the project's objectives and the concept of precision medicine to the students from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. The MicroDetect initiative has facilitated collaboration and communication between both parties in the field of synthetic biology. We hope that this exchange will contribute positively to the advancement of synthetic biology.

Collaboration​

BUCT-China 2024 successfully participated in an online popular science live streaming event titled "Synthetic Biology and Applications" in collaboration with ten other teams from across China. The event aimed to educate the public about synthetic biology, spark interest in life sciences, and promote the dissemination and exchange of scientific knowledge through an online platform.

Over 10 teams presented their projects, covering various aspects of synthetic biology, including its definition, development history, cutting-edge technologies, and potential applications. Themes included the applications and research achievements of synthetic biology in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental protection. Each team utilized formats like PowerPoint presentations and videos to vividly showcase the charm and potential of synthetic biology, offering the audience an exciting scientific feast. During the outreach process, viewers raised questions through bullet comments or chatrooms, which were answered by the presenters, enhancing the interactivity and engagement of the event.

The event attracted over 3,700 participants, including students, teachers, researchers, and biology enthusiasts. By utilizing an online platform, the event transcended geographical barriers, allowing more individuals to engage with and learn about synthetic biology. This successful event effectively popularized the fundamental concepts and latest advancements in synthetic biology to the public, sparking interest and enthusiasm for life sciences.

This online outreach activity on synthetic biology was a resounding success, not only providing a platform for the public to understand synthetic biology but also igniting their interest and passion for life sciences. In the future, BUCT-China 2024 will continue to organize similar online outreach activities, constantly innovating and enriching the content while strengthening collaboration with other teams to promote the dissemination of synthetic biology knowledge. We also look forward to greater public participation in science outreach, collectively contributing to the construction of a better ecological future.

The founding purpose of the journal Gene Whimsy is to create a platform that combines depth, focus, and longevity, aiming to disseminate the latest advancements in synthetic biology and precision medicine to a broad non-specialist audience. The magazine conveys complex scientific concepts in an engaging and easily understandable manner through thoughtfully designed visuals and content, committed to educating and inspiring the public.

BUCT-China 2024 collaborates with AFMU-China, NWU-CHINA-A and NAU-China to explore innovative treatment solutions for significant diseases, including type 2 diabetes and Mucopolysaccharidosis type II. These teams leverage cutting-edge technologies like engineered lactobacilli and functional exosomes to demonstrate the tremendous potential of synthetic biology in disease treatment.

AFMU-China team has effectively reduced the treatment burden of type 2 diabetes through the synthetic biological modification of lactobacilli. NWU-CHINA-A has developed exosomes capable of penetrating the blood-brain barrier for the rare disease MPS II, opening new therapeutic avenues for patients. NAU-China emphasizes the global impact of synthetic biology, highlighting its central role in addressing worldwide challenges.

Our work reflects not only the depth and breadth of scientific exploration but also the scientists' profound concern for human health. Through educational and public engagement activities, we enhance public awareness of the importance of synthetic biology and promote the dissemination of scientific knowledge. At the same time, our collaboration with international organizations and patients transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, working together to build a healthier and more sustainable future.

We also embrace social responsibility, focusing on the actual needs of patients and respecting the uniqueness of each individual as a starting point for driving innovation in medical models. Our work demonstrates that synthetic biology can not only bring hope to patients but also have a profound impact on society.

Through the medium of the magazine, we aim to spark readers' interest in science, improve their scientific literacy, and promote the dissemination of scientific knowledge. We believe this will help establish a community for scientific exchange, encouraging more people to participate in discussions and practices related to synthetic biology and precision medicine, collectively advancing scientific progress and human health.

Compared to traditional written science communication, podcasts are more vivid and intuitive through sound, allowing listeners to tune in anytime and anywhere. They make use of fragmented time without requiring long periods of reading, aligning with the fast-paced lifestyle of contemporary society. Podcasts can reach a broader audience, including those who may not actively engage in learning about cutting-edge biological technologies and individuals with visual impairments. By explaining complex concepts through relaxed, conversational dialogue, podcasts facilitate understanding among the general public. They can break down barriers related to time, space, and economic conditions, enabling more people to easily access scientific knowledge and enhance their scientific literacy in daily life.

BUCT-China 2024 collaborates with four teams—LZU-China, NAU-China, NWU-CHINA-A, and AFMU-China—inviting them as guests to engage in discussions that allow listeners to gain a deeper understanding of each team's projects this year. Additionally, we have produced a series titled “Synthetic Biology in Everyday Life”, which explores topics closely related to daily life, such as lung cancer, infant formula, and lab-grown meat. This series scientifically analyzes the issues surrounding these topics and highlights the applications of synthetic biology, enabling listeners to address real-life problems while learning about synthetic biology.

Our target audience is not professionals but the general public. We aim for our podcast to address everyday questions from a scientific perspective while introducing cutting-edge technological applications, allowing listeners to easily grasp the knowledge of synthetic biology. The podcast showcases various applications of synthetic biology across different fields, including biomanufacturing, diagnostics, therapy, food, and agriculture, discussing them through familiar everyday contexts.