Safety

Safety Pledge

We, the Duke Kunshan University iGEM team, prioritize safety and biosafety in all aspects of our gene editing and microbial engineering work, adhering to strict regulatory standards. We conduct our experiments in a BSL-2 accredited lab in China, using standard protective gear and equipment such as biosafety cabinets and chemical fume hoods. All team members receive comprehensive lab safety training, and we handle hazardous chemicals like phenol red and GelRed with appropriate safety protocols. We use non-pathogenic strains of microorganisms and design our experiments to prevent the release of antibiotic resistance genes, ensuring all waste materials are autoclaved before disposal.

Image placeholder
Safety 

Introduction

The Duke Kunshan University iGEM team values safety and biosafety as essential. We ensure that all aspects of our work, both inside and outside the lab, meet strict safety and regulatory standards. Our project focuses on gene editing and microbial engineering, and we take into account the potential impacts on human health, the environment, and the wider community. For more specific details, please refer to our safety and check-in forms submitted to iGEM.

Lab Safety

All laboratories of universities in China must be accredited by the Office of the Ministry of Environment. Experimental work for this project was conducted in a BSL-2 laboratory. Standard lab protective gear, such as gloves and lab coats, was worn during all experiments. Work in biosafety cabinets and chemical fume hoods (pictured below) was done when necessary. The team has undergone comprehensive lab safety training covering the use of equipment, handling of hazardous materials, and proper disposal procedures. All waste materials are autoclaved before disposal. Our team has implemented strict handling protocols for hazardous chemicals such as phenol red and GelRed.

Image 1 Image 2

Biosafety cabinet and chemical fume hood

Microorganism Review

We are working with non-pathogenic strains, including Lactobacillus johnsonii ATCC 33200, Lactococcus lactis ATCC 11454, and Escherichia coli DH5-alpha. The introduction of antibiotic resistance genes (kanamycin and erythromycin) is carefully managed to prevent environmental contamination. All organisms and materials are handled under controlled conditions to avoid unintended release.

Experiments

We paid mind to the potential risks associated with the release of antibiotic resistant genes into the environment. All waste was autoclaved before being discarded. All experiments were performed within the laboratory to avoid risk of leaks.

Harmful Reagents and Procedures

The project involves the use of several hazardous chemicals, including: 

● Phenol red, used in hydrogen peroxide measurements, poses liver and kidney toxicity risks upon contact or inhalation. 

● GelRed, a DNA stain, presents mutagenic risks and requires protective measures such as gloves and proper ventilation. 

 Hazardous chemicals were handled under a chemical fume hood. All chemicals are stored according to safety guidelines. Proper disposal methods, such as autoclaving and chemical waste containers, are followed to minimize risks. Antibiotic waste is particularly handled with care to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance genes.