ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

International Genetically Engineered Machine

Okay kiddo, do you know what genes are? They're like little instructions inside our bodies that tell us what to do, like what color our eyes are or how to digest food. Scientists can actually take those genes and change them in a special way to make living things do new and different things. This is called genetic engineering.

Now, imagine that scientists from all over the world got together and formed a team to create something amazing using genetic engineering. They call this team the "International Genetically Engineered Machine" or iGEM for short. These scientists use their knowledge of genetics to come up with creative and innovative ways to solve real-world problems.

For example, some iGEM teams have designed new bacteria that can clean up oil spills or detect harmful chemicals in the environment. Others have created cells that can fight cancer or even produce medicine to treat diseases.

The coolest part is that these scientists share their ideas and discoveries with other teams from different countries all around the world. So, imagine if you made a new toy and showed it to your friends. They might get inspired and make their own cool toys that they show to you, and then you'd get even more ideas! That's kind of how iGEM works too, except instead of toys, they're making really cool and important things for the world.

So there you have it, kiddo. iGEM is a team of scientists from all over the world who use genetic engineering to create new and innovative solutions to real-world problems, and they share their ideas with each other to make even more amazing discoveries.