Physics-Based Control Over de novo Synthesis of DNA or RNA
ID: DARPA-SN-25-46Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology) (541714)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; BASIC RESEARCH (AC11)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/bd7c123684854471abc45fa68a6237a6/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking qualified entities to respond to a Request for Information (RFI) focused on the physics-based control over the de novo synthesis of DNA and RNA sequences in living cells. The initiative aims to develop innovative methods for template-free synthesis, addressing challenges related to scalability and environmental impacts of traditional synthesis approaches. This effort is significant for advancing synthetic biology, with potential applications in biopharmaceuticals and genetic engineering. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses, and DARPA may host a workshop on May 1, 2025, in Arlington, VA, for selected respondents, with travel costs reimbursed. For further inquiries, contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-46@darpa.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    BAA Coordinator
    DARPA-SN-25-46@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-SN-25-46 FINAL.pdf
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Biological Technologies Office (BTO) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the potential for physics-based control over the de novo synthesis of DNA and RNA sequences in living cells. This initiative aims to develop methods for template-free synthesis, overcoming existing limitations in scalability and environmental concerns associated with traditional approaches. Responses are sought from qualified entities to address four primary areas: initiation, elongation, termination, and the current state of art in DNA/RNA synthesis methods. Additionally, considerations on biosecurity and the development of a programmatic approach are emphasized. DARPA may host a workshop on May 1, 2025, in Arlington, VA, for selected respondents, with travel costs reimbursed. This RFI encourages collaborations across academia, government labs, and industry to innovate within the realm of synthetic biology, aiming for advancements that could revolutionize fields such as biopharmaceuticals and genetic engineering. All provided information will inform future program development and establish guidelines for nucleic acid synthesis aimed at safety and efficacy.
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    Physics-Based Control Over de novo Synthesis of DNA or RNA
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