Governing Synthetic Biology: A Co-Evolutionary Framework for Sustainable Innovation

Synthetic biology has rapidly evolved from laboratory-based research to a core technology driving biomanufacturing, industrial innovation, and the global bioeconomy. Technological advancements such as next-generation sequencing, DNA synthesis, novel genome editing, and biofoundry automation are accelerating the industrial expansion and application of synthetic biology. However, despite these breakthroughs, current regulatory frameworks and societal acceptance are not in pace with technological development, creating significant barriers to the sustainable advancement of synthetic biology. This review offers a chronological analysis of synthetic biology development, examines regulatory and policy challenges, and proposes a 'co-evolutionary' model based on the 'Framework for Anticipatory Governance of Emerging Technologies' given by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Specifically, we highlight five key elements, research and development, strategic intelligence, societal trust formation, agile regulation, and international cooperation, as the foundation for mutual evolution of technology and institutional frameworks. Transforming science and technology into societal value requires essential policy support, which is a critical task for not only policymakers, but also scientists. Scientists must consider the societal context and institutional conditions in which their research operates, thereby ensuring the accountability and sustainability of science and technology. The future of synthetic biology requires a parallel approach that integrates scientific and technological advances with societal science perspectives, underpinned by collaborative governance among scientists, policymakers, and civil society.