The objective of the Synthetic Human Genome Project lies in the synthesis of a genome matching that of a human, pursuing advancements in genomics, genetic engineering, and potential medical therapies.

The Synthetic Human Genome Project (SynHG) is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to synthesize the human genome in a laboratory setting. This ambitious project, backed by the global medical charity, Wellcome, could take decades to complete and could cost anywhere from millions to hundreds of millions of pounds.

The specific chromosome to be synthesized has not yet been decided. However, the ultimate goal is to synthesize an entire genome made up of 46 chromosomes, a feat that could revolutionize our understanding of genetics and synthetic biology.

The SynHG promises to advance several key areas. It aims to develop new technologies and methods that could be used for drug screening, new cell therapies, and understanding the causes of complex diseases. Moreover, it could potentially aid in the synthesis of other complex genomes, such as those of plants, leading to improved food security.

The project's cost and time requirements are significantly less than the original human genome project, which cost around $3 billion (£2.2 billion) and took 13 years. This is largely due to advancements in DNA synthesis technology. While some companies have designed enzymes to assemble sections of DNA, up to a few thousand bases, longer sequences are currently linked by cloning in bacteria, which introduces errors.

Researchers are working to overcome these obstacles. They hope chemists will be able to provide long lengths of 20,000 base pairs or more to focus on developing tools to assemble them. Currently, researchers can make a few hundred base pairs at a time with reliable chemical methods, but longer sequences require more screening for errors.

Wellcome is providing £10 million to researchers from five universities for a project to synthesize one small chromosome, approximately 2% of human DNA, over the next five years. This initial step involves overcoming many challenges, including high cost, the complexity of non-coding DNA, and the need for long lengths of DNA with minimal errors.

Progress in synthesizing the genetic code of yeast and the bacterium Escherichia coli has encouraged the initiation of the SynHG. This project is not just about creating artificial life; it's about transforming our understanding of fundamental biological processes, such as gene regulation and disease.

In addition, a social science programme is entwined with the project to address the ethical, legal, and social implications of making genomes in the lab. This includes concerns about the misuse of the technology. Companies are also working on reducing the chemical waste and using 'greener' solvents to make the synthesis process more efficient.

The Synthetic Human Genome Project is a significant step towards understanding the human genome at a level never before possible. It's a testament to human ingenuity and a beacon of hope for a future where we can unlock the secrets of our genetic code.

The objective of the Synthetic Human Genome Project lies in the synthesis of a genome matching that of a human, pursuing advancements in genomics, genetic engineering, and potential medical therapies.