Hackers Listen In on What Synthetic DNA Machines Are Printing

When the cells inside your body lay down new tracks of DNA, they work hard not to deviate from the original blueprint--too many mistakes could lead to cancer or other diseases. Biologists synthesizing DNA in a lab are no different, only the custom-designed genetic materials their machines piece together arguably have more street value. They often contain the recipes for making new medicines and novel materials. Or the kinds of crystals that can bend a smartphone screen. These products represent cutting-edge academic research and the exact formulas are often corporate secrets.