How can scientific and technological breakthroughs be accelerated to improve the human condition?
The acceleration of S&T innovations from improved instrumentation, communications among scientists, and synergies among nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, cognitive science, and quantum technology continues to fundamentally change the prospects for civilization. Genetic code is being written to create new life forms such as plants that emit hydrogen instead of oxygen; the lab-created Isx-9 molecule can make nerve stem cells mature into brain cells, leading the way to brain regeneration; and other stem cell applications could revitalize any part of the body in the future. An olfactory sensor can detect the difference in odor between normal and cancerous cells. External light can be concentrated on internal targets for photodynamic therapy and to power implanted devices. Surgical robots are now used routinely in operations ranging from cardiothoracic surgery to urology; manufacturing robots are proliferating and may expand to agriculture and service jobs, freeing more
