Other researchers point to bio-engineering as a potentially vital solution to the food production challenges posed by a growing world population.

CNN: Researchers find bio-engineered corn harms butterflies

Voigt is at the forefront of a group of young researchers working to deliver on the profound promise of genetic engineering: Rebuilding living organisms to fight disease, make bio-fuels and solve industrial problems.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Professor Ian Bond, head of the aerospace engineering department at the UK's University of Bristol, said his team had been developing a "bio-inspired" vascular system, based on the veins in the human body.

CNN: The emerging world of self-healing materials