Biology plays games: Bacteria are becoming tacticians

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 14, 2024

Insight summary

Scientists have engineered bacteria capable of learning to play tic-tac-toe, demonstrating the potential for living cells to undertake complex tasks. This advancement hints at a future where biological systems might perform functions similar to electronic circuits, offering new pathways for smart materials and computational biology. While promising in healthcare and agriculture for personalized treatments and crop resilience, these developments also prompt discussions on ethics, biosecurity, and the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks.

Biology plays games context

At the Spanish National Research Council, researchers have successfully modified a strain of E. coli bacteria in 2022, enabling it not just to play but also to excel in tic-tac-toe against human opponents. This development is a deeper exploration into creating biological systems that mimic electronic components, specifically those used in advanced computer chips. These chips can mimic the synaptic activity of the human brain, suggesting potential for advancements in computational biology and smart material development.

How these bacteria play tic-tac-toe copies the decision-making processes in more complex organisms and machines. Researchers have established a communication method whereby the bacteria can 'sense' the game's progress and respond accordingly by manipulating the chemical environment of the bacteria. The modified protein ratios within their environment facilitate this process. Initially, these bacterial players make random moves, but after a mere eight training games, they began to display a surprising level of proficiency, showcasing the potential for bacterial systems to learn and adapt.

This breakthrough was a stepping stone towards developing more sophisticated neural networks based on bacterial systems. Soon, biological systems might be capable of performing complex tasks, such as handwriting recognition, opening new avenues in integrating biological and electronic systems. Such advancements underscore the potential of synthetic biology to develop living materials that can learn, adapt, and interact with their environments in unprecedented ways.

Disruptive impact

In healthcare, this technology may lead to more effective and personalized treatments by developing adaptable therapies that can evolve in response to a patient's changing condition. However, there is a risk of unintended consequences if these biological systems behave unpredictably, potentially leading to new diseases or ethical dilemmas around genetic modifications. This development can result in access to revolutionary treatments but may need strict regulatory oversight to manage risks.

In agriculture, adaptive synthetic biology promises to improve food security by creating crops that can adjust to varying climate conditions, resist pests and diseases, and yield more nutritious produce. This development could drastically reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. However, releasing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the environment raises concerns about biodiversity and the potential for unforeseen ecological consequences. As such, agriculture and biotechnology companies may need to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and public perceptions regarding GMOs.

For governments, the challenge lies in creating policies that foster innovation in synthetic biology while protecting public health and the environment. International cooperation may be essential to establish guidelines for the safe development and deployment of adaptive biological systems, ensuring they are used responsibly and ethically. This technology's dual-use nature, with applications in both civilian and military domains, further complicates regulatory efforts. Effective governance will require ongoing dialogue among scientists, policymakers, and the public to balance the benefits of adaptive synthetic biology against its risks.

Implications of biology plays games

Wider implications of synthetic biology that learn and adapt over time may include: 

• Enhanced crop resilience through adaptive synthetic biology, resulting in reduced food scarcity and increased global food security.


• Development of adaptive medical treatments leading to extended human lifespans and altering demographic trends, such as aging populations.


• Increased ethical debates and public discourse on the morality of genetic modifications, influencing societal values and norms.


• Governments establishing international collaborations to set ethical standards for synthetic biology.


• New economic sectors centered around synthetic biology services and products, boosting innovation and job creation.


• Changes in environmental policies to address the ecological impacts of releasing GMOs into the wild.


• The rise of biosecurity concerns, prompting nations to invest in defense mechanisms against potential biological threats.

Questions to consider

• How could adaptive synthetic biology change your approach to personal health and wellness?


• How might advancements in synthetic biology transform your job or industry?