UK Plans to Regulate AI in Gene Synthesis to Prevent Biosecurity Risks

The UK government is considering regulating AI in gene synthesis to address growing biosecurity concerns. Officials worry that AI could lower the barrier to creating biological weapons, so they are exploring measures like updating laws and requiring labs to screen customers and report suspicious orders. This aims to prevent terrorists or careless researchers from using synthetic DNA to make dangerous pathogens. Since the threat is global, the UK needs international cooperation. The new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has taken a tougher stance on AI. The UK government says it will keep supporting gene synthesis for medicine, food, and clean energy while ensuring national security.