Recent progress in DNA parts standardization and characterization

Abstract

Synthetic Biology, which is the 'engineering of biology', depends on wellcharacterized and standard genetic elements that can be assembled together to construct complex, multi-component genetic circuits that function in a contextindependent and predictable fashion. Here, we describe widely used standards employed for constructing DNA parts, and also discuss key assembly methods that can be used to build genetic devices starting from standard parts. Methods used to characterize parts and devices are discussed, and the finally, the need for 'functional standards' is outlined.