Addressing Biosecurity Concerns Related to the Synthesis of Select Agents

Addressing Biosecurity Concerns Related to the Synthesis of Select Agents

Describes concerns about reconstructing select agents de novo via DNA synthesis.

2006

Recommended the development of guidance for synthetic DNA providers and consumers concerning select agents, develop standards and practices for said guidance, update 18 U.S.C. 175 and the Commerce Control List (CCL) to reflect the inadequacy of sequence homology as a definition for an agent, and convene groups of experts to revisit select agent classifications in light of advances in synthetic DNA technology.