Seeking Security: Pathogens, Open Access, and Genome Databases

Seeking Security: Pathogens, Open Access, and Genome Databases

This report discusses the dual-use dilemma associated with genome research in the age of terrorism.

2004

Data on all organisms presents some level of concern. Genome data may facilitate development of biological weapons but it is also what facilitates the development of countermeasures. Terrorists are also capable of making weapons out of naturally occurring pathogens. Effective restriction of genome data is not practical and the data should remain open access. Genomics and genome data should be fully exploited to improve our ability to defend against infectious disease.