Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Synthetic Biology and Bio-Manufacturing Institute at Tianjin University marks a significant step in advancing synthetic biology education and research in China, aiming to respond to the challenges of the biotechnology revolution and the transformation of the bio-manufacturing industry [1][2][3]. Group 1: Strength in Synthetic Biology - Tianjin University has a strong foundation in synthetic biology, housing the National Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and the Ministry of Education's "Zhu Feng Plan" Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, leading to a vibrant innovation team composed of academicians and national-level talents [2][3]. - The university has undertaken 34 national key research and development projects and has published the highest number of research papers in synthetic biology globally over the past three years [2][3]. Group 2: Goals for World-Class Discipline - The new institute aims to integrate multidisciplinary resources and leverage artificial intelligence to enhance teaching and research, creating a comprehensive talent cultivation and research innovation platform [3]. - The institute plans to achieve significant breakthroughs in forward-looking basic research and leading original results, producing key common technologies and disruptive innovations to support sectors such as healthcare, energy materials, biological breeding, and environmental governance [3]. - A dynamic adjustment mechanism for professional disciplines will be established, along with interdisciplinary courses and practical projects, fostering a cross-disciplinary learning and research environment for students [3].

Core Viewpoint - Solena Materials, a UK-based synthetic biology company, has raised $6.7 million in seed funding to scale the production of sustainable high-performance textile fibers made from novel protein fibers [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Solena was founded in 2022 and previously secured €3.6 million in seed funding from Insempra [2]. - The company utilizes artificial intelligence to custom design protein fibers at the molecular level, optimizing characteristics such as appearance, feel, and tensile strength [2][3]. - Solena's technology represents a paradigm shift in protein fiber design, allowing for the creation of fibers that do not currently exist in nature [2][3]. Group 2: Technology and Production - The company’s approach involves designing proteins from scratch, making the production process simpler, more cost-effective, and highly scalable compared to traditional methods [2]. - Solena plans to relocate to a larger facility at the I-HUB building in Imperial College London to enhance collaboration with renowned fashion brands and increase production capacity [2]. Group 3: Industry Impact - The innovative technology of Solena is seen as a model for accelerating material discovery, combining computational design with rapid evaluation of fiber morphology [3]. - The protein-based fibers developed by Solena aim to replace petrochemical-derived materials, offering biodegradable and functional alternatives for consumers and industries [3].