PLKLFC
Overview
Our project hopes to develop a one-stop solution to detect and even kill prostate cancer cells. Apart from doing experiments, education is also a crucial part of our project. Our approach towards education does not involve high-risk experiments, therefore there are minimal safety concerns.
The only safety hazard present at our school is in the laboratory. Since our project requires us to use bacteria in the process of plasmid construction, we strictly followed the laboratory precautions to prevent risks.
Quality laboratory space
We have worked in our school’s laboratory mostly with equipment that meets the biosafety level. Our laboratory includes various safety features such as biosafety cabinets and autoclaves to prevent any risks. Prior to every experiment, the laboratory is sterilized with 75% alcohol. In addition to that, our hands and gloves are also sprayed with alcohol to prevent any contamination.The provision of these advanced equipment allows us to perform experiments safely without direct contact with hazardous substances.
Supervision
Our experiment protocols are reviewed by supervisors from different backgrounds. All the experiments carried out at school are monitored by our teachers to ensure we are doing the steps correctly.
Laboratory training
Before our experiments, we have asked for advice from professionals in and beyond our school, including but not limited to a pharmaceutical company and other experienced local iGEM team instructors to ensure every procedure stays on track.
Regulations and guidelines
Following the guidelines provided by HKUST and the Hong Kong Government Laboratory, including the general laboratory safety rules and hazard communication, we promise that the experiments are carried out in a controlled and proper manner. These regulations act as a framework of what we should prepare, be cautious of and what NOT to do.
Biohazard waste
As some cancer cells remain in the container, highly concentrated bleach is used to kill them. Or else, it will cause pollution to the nearby environment if we pour them down the drainage.