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Question of Science: Can We Build a Human? Brain Organoids, Spinal Implants and Synthetic Biology
On this Question of Science episode, Professor Brian Cox hosts a discussion about whether humans could be built from stem cells, organoids, and brain computer interfaces. The panel from Cambridge, the Francis Crick Institute, and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology examines lab grown organs, brain organoids, and the ethics of brain transplantation and synthetic biology. They explore what is technically possible today, what might become feasible, and how public engagement and regulation should shape the path ahead. The conversation covers augmentation versus full body reconstruction, collaboration across disciplines, and the societal implications of these frontier technologies.
Introduction and Setting
Professor Brian Cox hosts a panel of experts to tackle provocative questions about building a human. The discussion situates itself at the intersection of fundamental biology, engineering, and ethics, asking not only what could be done, but what should be done and how society should participate in shaping research trajectories.
The Scientific Landscape
The panel outlines a spectrum from curiosity driven fundamental science to applied therapies. They highlight the role of organoids, induced pluripotent stem cells, and neurotechnology as tools to understand development, disease, and potential therapies. They also discuss prosthetics, spinal cord implants, and brain–computer interfaces as real world technologies already impacting quality of life for people with disabilities.
Organoids and Organs on Demand
Organoids are described as small, self-organizing tissue constructs derived from stem cells that recapitulate aspects of organ development. While kidney, intestinal, and cerebral organoids have been created, challenges such as vascularization and maturation limit their size and function. The conversation probes whether synthetic organs could one day replace transplanted organs, and whether multiple mini organs implanted in the body might perform essential functions.
Brain Organoids and Consciousness
Experts discuss the potential and limits of brain organoids as models for evolution and brain development, clarifying that present organoids lack full sensory experiences and body integration. The ethics of creating conscious or potentially aware tissue outside a body is addressed, with emphasis on public engagement and robust governance.
Augmentation Versus Replacement
The panel compares approaches that augment human capabilities through technology against the idea of creating new, fully formed humans. They stress collaboration among developmental biology, engineering, and clinical translation as essential to progress while maintaining safety and ethical standards.
