A biosynthesizer was a device used on the planet Mariposa, which genetically engineered a variety of microorganisms from a template microbe, which in turn created a number of useful substances, including medicines, food, plastics and other materials. They also had the potential to create harmful pathogens. Large biosynthesizers were used on Mariposa in 2365; by 2376, smaller models were common in private homes. (SCE eBook: Out of the Cocoon)