Safety and Security

Organism Selection and Containment

Our project addresses biosafety through three main focuses: containment of genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs), public and environmental health protection, and compliance with regulations.

We use Arthrobacter globiformis strain ATCC 8010, which is classified as low-risk by Environment and Climate Change Canada. It shows no pathogenicity or toxigenicity, and occurs naturally in soil and rhizospheres. Its inability to grow above 32°C limits viability in warm-blooded hosts and unintended environments (ECCC, 2018).

To enhance containment, we are exploring genetic safeguards such as auxotrophic mutations (nutrient dependencies) and inducible kill switches, though the latter is not yet implemented (Halvorsen et al., 2022). These measures prevent survival or gene transfer outside lab conditions.

RNAi Construct and Off-Target Risk

Our design includes an RNA interference (RNAi) system targeting the bHLH61 gene in pest species. Although A. globiformis is low-risk, off-target effects on non-target organisms (NTOs) must be considered.

We use bioinformatics tools to design specific hairpin RNAs that reduce unintended gene silencing. RNAi crop research highlights the importance of evaluating exposure pathways—such as ingestion of plant or soil material—and their effects on organisms like Folsomia candida (Roberts et al., 2015).

Our seed-coating delivery system restricts bacterial activity to the rhizosphere, minimizing environmental spread and off-target exposure.

Laboratory Practices and Institutional Safety

All experimental work is conducted at the Synbridge Laboratory, a state-of-the-art synthetic biology makerspace in the Science Commons at the University of Lethbridge. It provides a controlled BSL-1 environment suitable for safe research.

We follow strict lab safety protocols, including:

• Use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Good hygiene practices
• Correct disposal of biological and chemical waste
• Proper handling of all materials and equipment
• Full compliance with BSL-1 safety standards

All team members are trained in WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) and SDS (Safety Data Sheets) before performing any lab work.

Regulatory and Ethical Oversight

Our project complies with regulatory frameworks including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Seeds Regulations, which address bacterial viability, gene transfer, and RNAi stability in seed coatings.

We also follow guidance from international bodies such as:

• EU Directive 2001/18 on GMO release
• Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations for RNAi-based pesticides

Although our modified bacteria are not intended for human consumption, we remain vigilant about potential metabolic impacts. Food safety evaluations usually check for unintended changes in genetically engineered organisms.

Collaboration with regulators and transparent risk communication are essential to ensure our work aligns with public values, ethical standards, and legal policies (Roberts et al., 2015; Kleter, 2020).