Pentagon develops "smart" blood for use in combat conditions

The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced the launch of the Smart-Red Blood Cells (Smart-RBC) program, aimed at creating modified human red blood cells using synthetic biology, Defence Blog reports.

The goal of the program is to create red blood cells with built-in biological circuits capable of detecting, making decisions, and responding to physiological signals. Such cells, called "smart red blood cells," are planned to be used to support vital functions in difficult conditions and increase the chances of survival in trauma by regulating physiological processes and promoting blood clotting.

According to DARPA, synthetic biological circuits with three main functions will be integrated into cells: biomarker detection, decision-making, and release of molecules that affect metabolic or physiological states. Initial research will focus on maintaining physical performance and enhancing hemostasis. In the future, thermoregulation, universal blood compatibility, and high-altitude adaptation are being considered.

The program is designed for 36 months and is divided into two phases of 18 months. In the first phase, teams must prove the possibility of integrating synthetic circuits during stem cell differentiation and preserving their functions in mature, non-nucleated erythrocytes. The second phase involves improving the systems, testing their effectiveness, and conducting a demonstration in real-world conditions.

The Smart-RBC project is currently in its early stages of implementation, but it already indicates increased Pentagon funding for synthetic biology as a defense tool aimed at improving survival, endurance, and the ability to adapt to difficult and dangerous conditions.