Bioelectricity Trumps Genetics

Jess Mah shares insights about bioelectricity's role in biological development, challenging the traditional focus on genetics. Through her work with scientist Mike Levin, she's exploring how bioelectrical signals, rather than genetic code alone, can dramatically influence biological outcomes.

Key Points:

• Bioelectricity vs Genetics Paradigm:

  • Genetics is like the "hardware" level of biology
  • Bioelectricity functions as the "software" level
  • Genetic modification isn't always necessary for biological changes

• Experimental Evidence:

  • Scientists can grow new body parts by manipulating bioelectric signals
  • Created eyeballs in new locations on test subjects
  • New organs naturally develop connections to the nervous system
  • No genetic modification required for these changes

• Commercial Development:

  • Created multiple companies under this research
  • Selljaboo: Working on overcoming drug resistance in medical treatments
  • Anthrobots: Developing programmable human bio-bots
  • Featured in Nature journal and CNN coverage

• Research Background:

  • Led by Mike Levin (Harvard PhD in genetics)
  • Initially funded by Paul Allen
  • Research continued after funding gap through new commercial partnerships

• Future Applications:

  • Could revolutionize cancer treatment
  • Instead of killing cancer cells, focus on reintegrating them
  • Potential for artificial embryo development
  • May change fundamental biological processes

• Business Approach:

  • Focus on bold science over incremental improvements
  • Willing to take high-risk, potentially transformative bets
  • Emphasis on mission over immediate profitability
  • Uses commercial structure to advance scientific research