Scientists Debate to Halt Type of Research That Could Destroy All Life on Earth Should Be Halted

"Scientists have warned that research into "mirror life" organisms - hypothetical life forms made up of molecules that perfectly mirror those found in regular life - should be stopped. Theoretically, it's a cool idea. But some scientists are worried that these life forms, if they're ever realized, could turn into a major risk for the world around us by turning into an unstoppable force that spreads without limits, overrunning and choking out natural organisms in its path."

"As Nature reported last year, mirror organisms could pose risks to pretty much all existing life if unleashed. They'd be like the ultimate invasive species, with no natural predators, and capable of evading pathogen detection systems found in nature because they're just so radically different. In a 300-page technical report published by Stanford University in December, scientists laid out the risks posed by mirror life, from pandemics to crop losses and ecosystem collapse."

"Other scientists, however, say these risks are completely overblown, as Nature noted in a follow-up article this week, pointing out we're likely still many years away from synthesizing larger mirror molecules, let alone entire organisms. And even if it did come to exist, and it did escape the lab, some experts think that nature would have ways to defend itself. Proponents of the research argue that "reverse chirality" molecules could be used to create promising new drugs, as they're not as readily recognized by the human body's enzymes and immune system."

Research into mirror life organisms—hypothetical organisms built from molecules that are mirror images of biological molecules—poses potential global risks if ever realized. Such mirror organisms could act as ultimate invasive species, lacking natural predators and evading existing pathogen detection, potentially causing pandemics, crop losses, and ecosystem collapse. A 300-page Stanford technical report details these hazards and warns of globally disastrous consequences. Other scientists argue the risks are overblown, noting technical barriers and the likelihood that synthesis of large mirror molecules or entire organisms remains years away and that natural ecosystems might offer defenses. Debate continues over whether to halt or allow such research.

Read at Futurism