Science team creates synthetic life using computer generated genome

This story almost sounds like the plot to a science fiction movie set in a future starring Harrison Ford as the lead, but this news is indeed the real deal. A team of scientists led by genome expert J. Craig Venter has successfully created the world’s first computer synthesized life form.
Now I’m not talking artificial intelligence, mind you. Working on the project for over 15 years, this science team comprised of genome researchers at the J. Craig Venter Institute, took the genome of a living cell and converted it into digital code. The group then took the computer code created from the sample genome and altered it allowing them to chemically synthesize the new computer generated genome code and introduce it into the cell of bacteria. That bacteria is now reproducing. Cool stuff.
Being a science fiction buff, though, I am compelled to ask the questions; with this breakthrough in bioengineering, I wonder how long it will take before researchers start trying to bring back extinct species like the dinosaurs? Also could we really be facing a future where eventually a Tyrell-like Corporation starts creating “replicants“?

http://www.geek.com/articles/geek-cetera/science-team-creates-synthetic-life-using-computer-generated-genome-20100521/