Overview
iGEM encourages us to take responsibility for the wider world. While we explore synthetic biology solutions, we also uphold strict biosafety. To ensure our work does not cause harm, we implement layered safety measures across facilities, training, management, release control, whitelist compliance, and waste handling.
Facilities
We operate in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory equipped with a biosafety cabinet (BSC), laminar flow clean bench, chemical fume hood, and open benches; the lab is qualified to handle Risk Group 2 organisms. Restrooms are separated from laboratory space. Core emergency equipment—including eyewash station, safety shower, and fire hydrant/hoses— is available for rapid response. Standard PPE (lab coat, gloves, eye protection) and area signage are enforced.
Specialist
Our lab safety officer, Gu Haoping, provides mandatory safety training before bench work, operates specialized equipment, and manages hazardous materials. All members complete training and use appropriate PPE; experiments are recorded promptly each day to support traceability and oversight.
Management
We follow strict rules and procedures. Physical access control prevents unauthorized entry; reagents and materials have check-in/out control to avoid diversion. Instruments have usage logs to ensure proper operation. Video surveillance supports detection of abnormal behavior.
Release
iGEM teams must not release engineered organisms or their products outside the lab. All our work is conducted within the laboratory; organisms, parts, and cell-free systems are contained and not released. Climate relevance: our algae concept aims to reduce CO2 emissions by increasing photosystem II expression under high-CO2 conditions to enhance CO2 uptake.
White List
We submitted initial and final safety forms for iGEM Safety Committee review to confirm our project poses no undue risk. Our E. coli strain is engineered with lactic-acid chemotaxis to synthesize and secrete all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) for solid-tumor therapy. The bacteria are designed to sense liver-cancer biomarkers, employ invasin for entry, and secrete apoptin to kill tumor cells. Organisms used (Top10, BL21, Nissle 1917, and Lactobacillus) are on the whitelist; all genes are sourced from IGSC-member companies.
Waste Treatment System
Routine waste is separated into domestic and medical waste. Medical waste is collected in dedicated containers and sent to specialized facilities for safe disposal of chemicals, bacteria, and other materials, ensuring no harm to the environment or personnel.
