USAFA - iGEM 2024

Safety and Security

The USAFA iGEM Team prioritizes safety and environmental responsibility in all aspects of our project. From the selection of non-pathogenic bacterial strains to the design of genetic components, we have taken significant steps to mitigate any potential risks to lab personnel, the environment, and the public.

1. Biosafety Measures in the Lab

   Our project utilizes E. coli DH5α and BL21, both of which are well-documented non-pathogenic strains commonly used in research settings. These strains pose minimal risk to human health. Additionally, we selected plant species—Arabidopsis thaliana, Thalassiosira pseudonana and Wisconsin Fast Plants—for their non-invasive characteristics and ensured that all organisms were securely contained within the lab, preventing any accidental release.

   To further ensure biosafety, all members of the team have undergone extensive training in proper lab practices, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and hazardous material handling. We meticulously follow standard protocols for sterilization, disposal, and containment, ensuring that no harmful organisms or materials leave the lab environment.

2. Environmental Safety and Real-World Applications

   Recognizing the broader implications of genetic engineering, we have thoroughly evaluated all genetic parts used in our project to avoid introducing any components that could pose a threat to natural ecosystems. One key focus of our research is the production of the enzyme silicatein-α in E. coli to promote sustainable agricultural practices by mitigating the amount of top-soil that is lost to wind. To ensure the safe application of this enzyme in the future, we intend to design a biological kill-switch mechanism that prevents the modified E. coli from persisting in the environment after completing its intended task. These safeguards will enable the controlled use of silicatein-α production to protect agricultural plots without endangering consumers, wildlife, or the environment.

In conclusion, the USAFA iGEM Team is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and security in both our laboratory practices and our approach to real-world applications. Through careful planning, rigorous protocols, and innovative biosecurity measures, we strive to create a project that not only advances science but also ensures the protection of public health and the environment.

Safe Lab Work: Our Top Priority

Safety is a top priority in our biology lab because protecting our personnel, equipment, and research is crucial for long-term success. To ensure a safe environment, all lab members receive extensive safety training. When handling hazardous materials, we strictly follow all necessary precautions, ensuring proper disposal and adherence to safety protocols.

Known Risk #1:

Due to the production of ammonia as a byproduct of biocementation, bleach, a common cleaning agent in many labs, cannot be used in our facility. If bleach were used, it could react with the ammonia to produce toxic mustard gas. To prevent this dangerous reaction, we use ethanol as our primary cleaning agent instead of bleach.

Known Risk #2:

In addition to adjusting our cleaning methods, autoclaving materials contaminated with ammonia poses a significant safety risk, as the process could aerosolize the ammonia, endangering anyone using the equipment or nearby. To mitigate this risk, we implement a thorough decontamination process. All glassware and waste containers are first rinsed with ethanol, and their contents are disposed of in hazardous waste bins. After this, the glassware is washed with soap and water before being autoclaved to ensure that any residual ammonia has been safely removed.

Safe Project Design

The USAFA iGEM Team took deliberate precautions when selecting the bacterial species and strains for our research. Additionally, we thoroughly investigated each genetic part to ensure that none would pose a threat to the environment if our research were to be continued.

• Both strains of E. coli we chose, DH5α and BL21, are non-pathogenic.
• The plant species—Arabidopsis thaliana, Thalassiosira pseudonana, and Wisconsin Fast Plants—were securely contained within our lab to prevent any potential spread into the environment.
• The genetic parts selected for our experiments are unlikely to pose any environmental risk.
• Although this stage of our research doesn't have a kill-switch, it is possible for us to implement one once our research progresses.