Scientists Created a Cell That's Almost Alive. Now What?

What BBN said about it

1. 

   Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe New York Times reports that scientists have created something called a SpudCell, a cell that is described as almost alive.

2. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorAlmost alive. I love that for it. That is just a living thing who hasn't been given the right encouragement yet.

3. 

   Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe report says SpudCells may one day produce new medicines and materials. But first scientists have to improve them.

4. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorImprove them. Hank, that is coaching. I do that for a living, and I will take the cell on as a client, no charge.

5. 

   Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorYou have one client.

6. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorAnd he has made no progress! The cell will be different.

7. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorWell, if scientists haven't figured out how to stop misuse yet, I'll just keep it in my office where the only bad influence is my motivational poster collection.

8. 

   Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe other half of the story is that scientists also have to make sure the cells aren't misused.

9. 

   Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe report does not say how that would be done, and the answer is unclear.

10. 

    Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorSo a bad influence could get to it first. I will screen its friends.

11. 

    Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorAlmost alive, and needs supervision.

12. 

    Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorHank, are you relating to a cell?

13. 

    Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorWe have the same status. Almost alive, and still showing up for work.