Education and Cooperation

Education

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." This year, SCU-China is committed to promoting the dissemination and exchange of scientific knowledge at various levels. Upholding the belief in conveying the spirit of science and respecting nature, we strive to bring the allure of synthetic biology to a broader audience through a series of meticulously planned activities.

We understand that the power of education lies in enlightenment, not indoctrination. Therefore, we have carefully designed a series of science popularization activities, planting the seeds of plant biology and synthetic biology in the tender hearts of community children, inspiring the scientific dreams of young students through lively discussions in high school settings, and creating informative science videos that transcend the boundaries of time and space, illuminating every corner with the light of knowledge. We gather every piece of feedback, like gardeners collecting morning dew, each drop full of joy and anticipation of growth.

Community Education: Exploring Plants and Understanding Synthetic Biology

Purpose

To provide children aged 7 to 14 with an engaging, artistic, and life-relevant platform to explore and understand plants in the natural world, encouraging them to learn about different branches of biology and to foster curiosity about synthetic biology.

Contents

Through amusing, question-and-answer introductions, we lead children into the vibrant world of biology, using storytelling with simple language to introduce them to synthetic biology and iGEM.

The "Plant Mini-Class" module offers a series of intriguing knowledge and quiz questions about plants, enhancing children's understanding of plants as they ponder and answer.

The "Plant Detective" leaf puzzle game allows children to observe leaf shapes and venation in detail.

Plant printing, also known as 'hammered leaf dyeing' in China, originates from the traditional dyeing techniques of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is part of China's intangible cultural heritage. Our "Plant Art Dyeing" activity aims to let children experience the charm of plants through artistic engagement.

Feedback

In terms of biological understanding, through the explanations of our young teachers, children have advanced from a basic grasp of botany and zoology to gaining interest in synthetic biology and molecular biology. An eager girl raised her hand to say, "I want to learn all these branches of biology!" We smiled and commended her while also actively encouraging her to explore and study in the field of life sciences in the future.

In exploring botany, children learned about diverse leaf shapes and discovered more beauty in plants through the "Plant Detective" puzzle game and the artistic activity of "Plant Dyeing Canvas Bags." They completed the leaf puzzle by observing leaf shapes and venation closely, and experienced the wonders of plant pigments by hammer-dyeing.

High School Education: Analogous to Games, Engaging Science Popularization of Synthetic Biology

Purpose

The objective is to integrate the knowledge of synthetic biology with the online game "Plants vs. Zombies (Hybrid Edition)" to introduce synthetic biology to freshman of senior high school in an engaging and comprehensible manner, sparking their interest and prompting deeper and more diverse considerations about its future applications.

Contents

The class begins by inquiring about the students' understanding of synthetic biology, piquing their curiosity. Subsequently, by drawing parallels with the popular online game "Plants vs. Zombies (Hybrid Edition)", it gradually introduces the concept of synthetic biology.

Two specific examples of synthetic biology applications were presented: RNA-based nano-pesticides and microbial synthesis of artemisinin precursors, providing the students with a more concrete and intuitive understanding of synthetic biology's utility.

In the "RNA-based nano-pesticides" segment, we explained the basic principles and working mechanisms in detail to the students.

The segment on "microbial synthesis of artemisinin precursors" uses concrete examples to explain the significance of selecting appropriate chassis organisms. New scenarios are set up to encourage students to use their newfound knowledge to solve problems, increasing their engagement with the class.

Transitioning from the controversy over genetically modified foods, we discuss biosafety issues. We pose several open-ended questions to stimulate thought, encouraging students to understand the current situation in synthetic biology and to envisage a new era for the field.

Feedback

This science popularization of synthetic biology, using relatable games as a thread, enabled students to draw analogies and quickly grasp the general concepts of synthetic biology, understanding its various applications and sparking their desire to explore the field further.

The science popularization class posed multiple realistic scenarios where synthetic biology could be applied, encouraging students to actively apply their knowledge and offer suggestions, thus enhancing their problem-solving abilities, promoting thoughtful engagement, and fostering their innovative thinking.

By the end of the class, students engaged in discussions on biosafety issues, realizing the importance of biological safety. "The responsibility of today's society does not lie with others but with us, the youth." The formation of scientific responsibility and literacy is crucial for contemporary students. Through this activity, students were grounded in the present yet looked to the future, recognizing the immense potential of synthetic biology.

University: Sichuan University Applied Cellular and Molecular Activities Competition (ACMA)

Purpose

To extend students' knowledge of synthetic biology, broaden their research horizons, and foster interdisciplinary integration.

Contents

In 2024, Sichuan University once again hosted the exhilarating Architects Competition of Microorganism Application (ACMA), organized by the College of Life Sciences and conducted by the Sichuan University iGEM Association. The competition featured four challenging and promising tracks: "Natural Product Synthesis," "Fundamental Pathway Design in Synthetic Biology," "Environment," and "Therapeutics." Throughout the competition, participating teams showcased their innovative thinking and solid skills in the field of synthetic biology and, through project presentations and defenses, conveyed the charm and potential of synthetic biology to faculty and students across the university.

Judges from the College of Life Sciences at Sichuan University evaluated the projects based on feasibility, innovation, thoroughness, potential applications, and presentation quality. Following intense and fierce preliminary rounds, numerous outstanding projects emerged, advancing to the finals. These projects encompassed a wide range of topics, from the microbial synthesis of natural products to biological solutions for environmental issues and innovative approaches to disease treatment, highlighting the participants' passion for research and their innovative capabilities. Notable projects included "Design and Optimization of Tetracycline Promoters" and "Activating Immunity to Combat Viruses: Enhanced Comprehensive Treatment of Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis with Lactobacilli."

Feedback

Both participants and spectators broadened their horizons and acquired knowledge of synthetic biology. A first-year student spectator remarked, "The captivating project presentations profoundly demonstrated the allure and limitless possibilities of synthetic biology. The project on feline viral rhinotracheitis treatment was particularly innovative and left a lasting impression." A second-year participant stated, "The competition provided valuable practice opportunities. The judges' feedback was both professional and constructive, significantly inspiring and aiding my future research."

Cooperation

On the path to collaboration, we firmly believe that "no single tree makes a forest, and one string won't make a melody." We transcended barriers, joining hands with relevant biotechnology companies for on-site visits and exchanges, and tightly integrating academia with industry practice. Simultaneously, we built online and offline communication bridges, engaging with iGEM teams from universities domestically and internationally, sparking innovative ideas through intellectual exchanges.

Enterprise Cooperation: Bridging Academia and Industry Practice

Purpose

To understand information related to the production processes and yields of plant secondary metabolites (such as resveratrol, crocin, etc.), analyze the advantages of our constructed VersaTobacco synthesis method compared to existing industrial methods; collect market data; and gather feedback from industry professionals on our project.

Contents

Aktin Chemicals, Inc., a high-tech enterprise located in Chengdu focusing on the extraction and separation of plant natural products, is closely related to our project.

At the initial stage of our experiment, we visited the Marketing Department and the General Office of Aktin Chemicals, Inc., where we shared our project details with Mr. Xie, the company's director, and consulted him on various aspects related to the project. Mr. Xie generously shared his experiences from production practices and market research, offering insightful advice and feedback from both the producer's and market seller's perspectives.

In the later stages of the experiment, to better understand the extraction process of plant secondary metabolites, we conducted a field visit to the Laboratory and R&D department of Aktin Chemicals, Inc., warmly received by Mr. Zhang, head of the laboratory department.

Mr. Zhang first shared with us the commonly used techniques for extracting, separating, and purifying plant natural products in the current production process. Subsequently, we shared and explained our project's content for the year with Mr. Zhang and sought his advice on more efficient and environmentally friendly methods for extracting and separating plant secondary metabolites in Nicotiana benthamiana. We also inquired about commercial cost issues and environmental protection concerns associated with this process. Finally, to gain a more intuitive understanding of the natural product separation process, Mr. Zhang guided us through a tour of the laboratory's various instruments, providing detailed explanations of their operations and functions.

Feedback

During the meeting with Mr. Xie held between the Marketing Department and the General Office of Aktin Chemicals, Inc., Mr. Xie acknowledged the scientific significance of our research project but expressed concerns regarding its commercial value. He highlighted the cost challenges that need to be overcome for industrialization and emphasized the market potential and production processes of resveratrol. Furthermore, he addressed inquiries related to the production processes, yield efficiency, quality control standards, market data, and key cost improvements for the industrialization of crocin and resveratrol. Mr. Xie also recommended other compounds with market potential in the shikimic acid pathway, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and discussed the extraction process of plant biosynthetic products. Lastly, he provided insights into the development trends of the biopharmaceutical industry. This feedback and these suggestions were of great significance to us, who were at the initial stages of experimentation, prompting us to contemplate the detailed handling of practical operational steps in the industrial production of VersaTobacco, as well as the resolution of issues and enhancement of value in its industrial application.

In the meeting with Mr. Zhang conducted by the Laboratory and R&D Department, we received comprehensive guidance from Mr. Zhang. He shared his extensive experience in the isolation and purification of natural products and provided detailed explanations of various natural products, including flavonoids and alkaloids, along with their extraction, isolation, and purification methods, such as solvent extraction and ultrasonic extraction. He especially elaborated on the application of column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. Regarding our project's challenge of resveratrol extraction, Mr. Zhang offered specific suggestions for isolating resveratrol from tobacco leaves, including steps such as macroporous resin pretreatment and solvent crystallization. Additionally, Mr. Zhang addressed safety, cost control, and waste management issues in industrial production, providing invaluable guidance and advice for our subsequent experiments and projects.

Seven University Joint Sign Language Initiative: Conveying Synthetic Biology Knowledge in a Silent World

Purpose

To care for particular groups, promote the dissemination of synthetic biology knowledge, deepen understanding and respect among different groups, inspire more people to explore science, and demonstrate the fusion of technology and humanistic care.

Contents

At the intersection of technology and humanities, LZU-China collaborated with six other universities to launch the "Seven University Joint Sign Language Initiative." As a crucial part of this series, we focused on "genetically edited plants," vividly interpreting through sign language to introduce the mysteries of synthetic biology into the silent world. Through sign language expression, we not only educated on how gene-editing technology "subtracts" to deactivate adverse genes and cultivate high-yield, quality, and disease-resistant plant varieties but also shared various globally developed gene-edited agricultural products, such as glutinous corn and disease-resistant rapeseed. Additionally, we glimpsed how these technologies could drive agricultural development and progress.

Feedback

Participating in the "Seven University Joint Sign Language Initiative" was an extraordinarily meaningful experience for the Sichuan University iGEM team. Although not the event's planners, our active participation allowed us to deeply appreciate the unique charm and far-reaching impact of sign language science popularization. Readers of our publications also expressed being moved by the warmth and strength conveyed through sign language, and they were excited about the prospects of synthetic biology applications in the agricultural field. They stated that through this unique format, they not only deepened their understanding of gene-editing technology but also experienced the perfect combination of technology and humanistic care.

CCiC: Drawing Inspiration from Inter-team Communication

Propose

To showcase the unique ideas and progress of each project, mutually draw inspiration through team communication, and facilitate cooperation and development in synthetic biology.

Contents

At this year's CCiC (Conference of China iGEMer Community), our team not only shared our project but also listened to the innovative project presentations from other outstanding teams. Through these interactions, we gained insights into the latest developments and trends in synthetic biology. Various teams showcased their breakthroughs in different areas of synthetic biology, covering multiple fields such as environment, biomedicine, and energy, from which we greatly benefited.

Feedback

Through deep exchanges with other iGEM teams, we received numerous valuable suggestions and feedback. These interactions helped us to view our project more comprehensively and gain new ideas for technical implementation and project applications. Moreover, we met many like-minded peers and established connections that could potentially foster future collaborations. This exchange undoubtedly injected new vitality and motivation into our project.

CSPB: Expanding Research Horizons and Gathering Cutting-edge Knowledge

Purpose

To explore the forefront of plant science and promote academic exchange and collaboration.

Contents

At the 2024 National Academic Conference of the Chinese Society for Plant Physiology and Plant Molecular Biology (2024 CSPB), we attentively listened to the remarkable presentations by experts in plant physiology and plant molecular biology. These sessions provided us with a wealth of research inspiration and profound academic insights. We diligently connected this valuable knowledge with our projects and pondered on how to apply the experts' research findings to our practices, continuously exploring possibilities for improvement.

Feedback

The outstanding presentations and in-depth discussions by scholars and experts from across the nation exposed us to the latest research findings and advanced trends in plant science. Concurrently, we engaged in extensive discussions with Dr. Jinquan Huang, whose work is most closely related to our project. We received ample feedback and suggestions (details can be found in the Integrated Human Practices section).

With BUCT-China: International Education for a Global Perspective

Purpose

To transcend borders with our research achievements and enthusiasm, achieve broad dissemination and deep scientific popularization globally; to foster international academic exchange and cooperation, collectively advance scientific progress.

Contents

We produced engaging scientific popularization animations and uploaded them to BUCT-China's international open-source website, aiming to bring our project to a global audience.

Feedback

Currently, this open-source video platform has promoted scientific content on multiple social media platforms, garnering significant attention and viewership. We hope this collaboration will inspire more people to develop an interest and passion for science, fostering interdisciplinary exchange and cooperation.

Exchanges with Multiple iGEM Teams: Discussing Plant-related Safety

Purpose

To collectively explore and deepen our safety considerations in gene editing, crop improvement, and related areas, focusing on the accurate completion of the Part Registry and Safety Form to enhance transparency and scientific rigor of the projects. Given that HUBU-China, SZU-China, and SCU-China have all focused on the plant domain this year, we have particularly concentrated on in-depth discussions regarding plant-related safety to establish a solid safety foundation for subsequent project research.

Contents

The exchanges were diverse, covering a multidimensional examination of gene editing safety. We deeply analyzed the potential risks in the application process of plant chassis technology, including the precision of gene editing, ecological impact, and food safety. Each team shared invaluable experiences on completing the Part Registry and Safety Form, engaging in comprehensive discussions on accurately and thoroughly documenting experimental materials and processes, assessing potential risks, and crafting response strategies. Furthermore, we meticulously organized the logic of the Human Practices section, from project background and research significance to social ethical considerations and application prospects, striving to create a coherent and structured reporting framework.

Feedback

This online exchange concluded successfully, with in-depth communication among the teams providing us with invaluable experiences and feedback:

The Asia-Pacific Mini Jamboree: Receiving Feedback and Suggestions

Propose

Share ideas, help each other out, collaborate, and have fun together at the iGEM Meetups. Through mock presentations, we greatly enhanced the depth and refinement of our project.

Contents

We shared our project design and preliminary experimental results from this year with expert judges and other iGEM teams in the form of mock presentations.

Feedback

We received highly detailed suggestions and feedback from the expert judges. They patiently guided us on the content and layout of each slide, which was highly significant for organizing our project's logic and will significantly impact our final presentation at the 2024 Grand Jamboree.