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Science, Spoken

The US Is Cracking Down on Synthetic DNA

May 7, 2024
Exploring the risks of synthetic DNA sparking a pandemic and President Biden's new safety regulations. Discussing the challenges of regulating DNA synthesis and proactive measures taken by Twist Bioscience to enhance security standards.
05:49

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Quick takeaways

  • Synthetic DNA poses a pandemic risk if misused, prompting Biden's rules for safety standards.
  • Challenges in consistent DNA screening and concerns over state actors independently creating gene sequences.

Deep dives

Concerns on Synthetic DNA and Pandemic Threats

Synthetic DNA technology poses a significant concern as it could potentially be misused to create dangerous pathogens that could lead to pandemics. President Biden's executive order has prompted new rules to regulate companies manufacturing synthetic DNA to enhance safety and security standards. The ability to order genetic material for various purposes like creating diagnostic tests or engineering antibodies has raised fears of accidental or intentional misuse, highlighting the importance of implementing screening procedures to identify sequences that may pose risks.

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