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(1) A biological engineering application or tool you want to develop and why

BioSponge: A Liposome-Based Platform for Targeted Toxin Degradation

I propose to develop an engineered "BioSponge" that actively captures and degrades specific toxins or damaging proteins within targeted cellular or tissue environments. The design is based on a liposome-like structure that serves as a robust, membrane-based framework. This platform will be functionalized with specialized receptor moieties—potentially antibody-like molecules—that are tailored to recognize and bind the protein or toxin of interest. Once a target is bound, the complex is internalized into the BioSponge, where the receptors can be recycled for continuous capture. Inside the structure, a deliberately maintained low-pH environment (or integrated degradative enzymes) will facilitate the breakdown of the target molecule, ensuring its effective neutralization. This tool embodies a novel approach by combining targeted capture with controlled degradation, potentially offering a versatile solution for mitigating pathological effects associated with harmful proteins or toxins.

(2) Next, describe one or more governance/policy goals related to ensuring that this application or tool contributes to an "ethical" future, like ensuring non-malfeasance (preventing harm). Break big goals down into two or more specific sub-goals

Governance/Policy Goals for an Ethical Future

A. Ensure Safety and Prevent Harm (Non-Malfeasance):

1. Target Specificity:
   • Sub-goal: Define and select well-characterized protein toxins as targets to ensure that the tool only interacts with harmful proteins and does not inadvertently affect essential cellular proteins.
2. Immunogenicity Assessment:
   • Sub-goal: Verify that both the liposome structure and the attached receptor moieties do not trigger unintended immune responses. This will involve in vitro immunogenicity assays to confirm that the platform is biocompatible.
3. Rigorous Safety Validation:
   • Sub-goal: Develop and utilize reliable in vitro models to assess the safety and effectiveness of the BioSponge. If preliminary data are promising, extend the safety validation to animal studies under controlled conditions to ensure no adverse effects.

B. Promote Equity:

1. Broad Community Relevance:
   • Sub-goal: Engage with diverse stakeholders to identify targets that address health issues of interest to various communities. This ensures that the application is relevant and beneficial to a wide audience, including underserved populations.
2. Platform Accessibility and Modularity:
   • Sub-goal: Design the BioSponge as a modular and adaptable platform. This will allow future developers to easily integrate new targets or improvements, fostering innovation and ensuring that the can evolve in ways that benefit broader communities.

(3) Governance Actions for Ethical Development and Use of the Bio-Specific Degrading Sponge

1. Establish Focus Groups to Identify Verified Toxin Targets