Synthetic biology is a new area of biological research that combines science and engineering in order to design and build novel biological functions and systems. In essence, synthetic biology will enable the design of biological systems in a rational and systematic way. This new Specialist Periodical Report in Synthetic Biology captures the expanding primary literature in the form of critical and comprehensive reviews, providing the reader with an authoritative digest of the latest developments in this emerging field. Leading researchers draw on the recent literature, from both dedicated journals and broader sources, making this an essential reference to any library supporting this research.