ACS Synthetic Biology

Scope & Guideline

Connecting Minds in the World of Synthetic Biology

Introduction

Welcome to the ACS Synthetic Biology information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of ACS Synthetic Biology, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2161-5063
PublisherAMER CHEMICAL SOC
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2012 to 2024
AbbreviationACS SYNTH BIOL / ACS Synth. Biol.
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036

Aims and Scopes

ACS Synthetic Biology aims to advance the field of synthetic biology through innovative research that integrates engineering principles with biological systems. The journal focuses on the design, construction, and application of novel biological systems, encompassing a wide range of methodologies and applications.
  1. Synthetic Biology Tools and Techniques:
    Development and optimization of various synthetic biology tools, including CRISPR/Cas systems, optogenetic tools, and biosensors that enable precise manipulation of genetic circuits and metabolic pathways.
  2. Metabolic Engineering and Biosynthesis:
    Research aimed at engineering microbial systems for the production of valuable compounds, including biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals through metabolic pathway optimization.
  3. Genetic Circuit Design and Characterization:
    Focus on the design and analysis of synthetic genetic circuits, including logic gates, feedback loops, and regulatory networks to control cellular behavior in predictable ways.
  4. Cell-Free Systems and Biomanufacturing:
    Investigation of cell-free expression systems for protein synthesis and the use of these systems for rapid prototyping and high-throughput screening of biological parts.
  5. Applications in Medicine and Environmental Biotechnology:
    Exploration of synthetic biology applications in therapeutic development, diagnostics, and environmental monitoring, including engineered probiotics and biosensors for detecting pollutants.
The landscape of synthetic biology is continually evolving, with several emerging themes gaining traction in recent publications within ACS Synthetic Biology. These trends highlight the journal's responsiveness to new scientific challenges and technological advancements.
  1. Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
    The application of AI and machine learning techniques to optimize synthetic biology processes and predict outcomes is increasingly prominent, facilitating data-driven designs and enhancing experimental efficiency.
  2. Synthetic Probiotic Engineering:
    The engineering of probiotics for therapeutic applications is on the rise, reflecting an increased interest in developing living therapeutics that can interact with human microbiomes or target specific diseases.
  3. Environmental Applications and Bioremediation:
    Research focusing on the use of engineered microorganisms for environmental applications, including bioremediation and pollution detection, is becoming more prevalent as sustainability issues gain importance.
  4. Optogenetics in Synthetic Biology:
    The use of light-controlled systems to manipulate biological processes is trending, showcasing advancements in precision control of gene expression and cellular functions.
  5. Modular and Combinatorial Approaches:
    There is a growing trend towards modular design in synthetic biology, allowing for the flexible assembly of genetic components to create complex systems with specific functions.

Declining or Waning

While certain themes remain prominent, some areas of research within ACS Synthetic Biology have shown signs of decline or waning interest. These themes may reflect shifts in focus towards more innovative or pressing challenges in synthetic biology.
  1. Traditional Genetic Engineering Methods:
    As newer and more efficient techniques such as CRISPR and synthetic biology tools gain prominence, traditional genetic engineering methods may be receiving less attention in favor of more advanced methodologies.
  2. Basic Biochemical Pathway Studies:
    Research focused on the basic understanding of metabolic pathways without engineering applications may be declining as the field moves towards more applied research with direct industrial or therapeutic relevance.
  3. Non-Model Organism Studies:
    Research involving non-model organisms may be less frequently published, as the community increasingly relies on well-characterized systems that provide more predictable outcomes for synthetic biology applications.

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