Describe all the safety issues of your project.
Our project aims to develop a cellular sensor using eukaryotic cells that express fluorophores in response to the presence of antibiotics and heavy metals in aqueous samples. The growing concern over environmental contamination by antibiotics and toxic metals highlights the need for efficient detection systems. Our sensor utilizes genetically engineered pathways that trigger a fluorescent signal upon binding to specific contaminants, enabling real-time monitoring of water quality. This system offers a non-invasive, sensitive, and cost-effective solution for detecting harmful substances in various ecosystems. To ensure its safety, we have designed the sensor to function only under controlled laboratory conditions, with built-in mechanisms that limit its activity in the natural environment. In this section, we address the safety and security aspects implemented to prevent unintended release of the genetically modified cells, while ensuring the protection of our Wetlab team and the environment. Through careful planning and rigorous adherence to safety protocols, we strive to minimize any potential risks associated with the use of our sensor.
Our work follows the stringent laboratory safety regulations outlined by the institution of Hannover Medical School, ensuring a safe environment for handling genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and hazardous substances such as antibiotics and heavy metals. Regular training of every involved team member is provided by the biosafety officer of the facility. The general laboratory of the institution operates under Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) or BSL-2 conditions, depending on the specific experimental requirements, ensuring that all activities are conducted in controlled environments with proper containment. The cloning and all cell culture work of our iGEM team were carried out in BSL1 laboratories. The BSL2 projects of other employees in the institution's laboratories were strictly separated from the BSL-1 work of our iGEM team. All team members are trained in standard operating procedures for the safe handling of biological materials, including personal protective equipment, sterile techniques, and waste management protocols. Regular safety audits, risk assessments, and emergency response plans are in place to address any potential hazards. Additionally, all work is conducted in compliance with the German Genetic Engineering Act (Gentechnikgesetz), ensuring that all genetically modified organisms are handled safely and responsibly. The engineered cells used in our project pose no risk to the team, colleagues, the community, or the environment, as they are all classified under iGEM’s White List of approved organisms. All organisms and genetic materials are sourced exclusively from within the lab, with no external acquisitions. None of the modified cells will be released outside the laboratory at any stage of the project. Additionally, all cellular waste is safely inactivated through autoclaving to prevent any potential environmental contamination.
The design of our cellular sensor prioritizes safety at every stage. The engineered cells are intended to function exclusively in controlled laboratory conditions, with prevention of their survival or proliferation outside these settings. Additionally, the design minimizes risks associated with handling antibiotics and heavy metals by confining these substances to designated workspaces, adhering to strict safety protocols, and ensuring proper waste disposal. The system’s functionality is limited to lab-scale experiments, reducing the potential for environmental exposure. We follow comprehensive biosafety guidelines to manage any risks associated with the use of genetically modified eukaryotic cells. A thorough risk assessment was conducted, confirming that our cells pose minimal threat to human health or the environment. Genetic stability of our constructs is maintained through regular monitoring to prevent unintentional mutations. To prevent environmental contamination, stringent containment measures are in place, including restricted access to experimental areas and protocols for handling biological materials. All work complies with national and international biosafety regulations, ensuring that both the research team and the environment are protected throughout the project lifecycle. Special precautions are taken when working with antibiotics and heavy metals to prevent exposure and environmental contamination, including designated work areas and chemical waste disposal systems.
Throughout the project, we have strictly adhered to all relevant ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements set by German authorities and iGEM. Our work complies with the German Genetic Engineering Act (Gentechnikgesetz), as well as institutional protocols for the safe use of genetically modified organisms and hazardous materials. We have ensured transparency and accountability in all aspects of our research, taking into consideration both the potential benefits and risks of our cellular sensor technology. Ethical oversight and regular reviews have guided our decision-making process to ensure that the project aligns with societal and environmental responsibilities. To maintain a high standard of safety, a dedicated Safety Officer has been appointed within the team. He was responsible for overseeing all safety protocols, ensuring that the team complies with laboratory regulations, and conducting regular safety checks. The Safety Officer serves as the main point of contact for any safety-related concerns or incidents, coordinating responses and adjustments to safety procedures when necessary. In the event of an accidental release of genetically modified organisms or exposure to hazardous substances, comprehensive emergency response protocols were in place. These include immediate containment procedures, notification of relevant authorities, and decontamination processes. All team members are trained in emergency procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment and the steps for dealing with spills or exposure to harmful agents. Emergency contact lists within the institution are accessible and easy to find even in emergency scenario. Further details of the use of our sensor in the future and associated safety risks are presented in the proposed implementation.