Synthetic biology is the technology that allows scientists to create "artificial life forms" tailored to perform otherwise impossible feats. For our purposes, it includes even the rewriting and insertion of one new, functioning gene. As explained in our July 2010 issue, this emerging field is on the verge of triggering an economic and technological revolution that will transform nearly every aspect of our lives. Just as the fundamental technologies of photolithography and solid-state physics were indispensible to information technology, sequencing and synthesis technologies for DNA, RNA, and proteins will be indispensible for synthetic biology. Where do these technologies stand? What’s ahead? How can you profit? We'll fill you in.

Throughout history, water has been one of man's most important economic resources. Now, trends in population growth, urbanization, and industrialization have intersected with nanotech, biotech, and infotech to transform water into an enormous opportunity for the coming decade. Why is this the case? Who will be the big winners and losers? How can you make the most of this situation? We'll show you.