Abstract <p>The review is devoted to advances in the creation of an artificial cell using synthetic biology methods. All achievements in this area not only are directly related to the possibility of answering the question of how life was created on this planet but also impose great risks on the creation of objects that can be directed to the detriment of humanity or individual groups of people. Since modern technologies make it possible to synthesize the genomes of many organisms (bacteria and viruses) in vitro without complex equipment, only the moral and ethical qualities of the researcher and his foresight and deep study of the consequences of his actions can ensure the correct development of synthetic biology as a new and very promising science, without fear of possible negative consequences.</p>