Improve DNA synthesis screening through enabling the development of better tools and mechanisms for screening performance evaluation

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $248,293 Cooperative Agreement under the Measurement and Engineering Research and Standards (CFDA 11.609) program to the Engineering Biology Research Consortium (EBRC) to improve DNA synthesis screening capabilities. EBRC will partner with NIST, industry, government, and other stakeholders to identify and describe the structure and properties of a federally-developed database of nucleic acid sequences of concern, and develop a test dataset for benchmarking, validating, and certifying adherence to standards for nucleic acid synthesis screening. EBRC will also support the implementation and use of new frameworks, tools, and best practices in this area. The two-year project aims to enable innovation, improve existing screening systems, and build stakeholder confidence in DNA synthesis capabilities.

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to improve DNA synthesis screening through enabling the development of better tools and mechanisms for screening performance evaluation.

Activities

Ebrc will partner with NIST, industry, government, and other stakeholders to identify and describe the structure and properties of a USG-developed nucleic acid sequences of concern (SOC) database (s) and the necessary accompanying tools, with consideration for security and access controls, to enable its use by companies that build or use nucleic acid screening systems. Ebrc will also partner with industry, government, and other stakeholders to develop a test dataset-or describe the characteristics of a test dataset-for benchmarking, validating, assessing, and/or certifying adherence to articulated standards for nucleic acid synthesis screening. Ebrc will also support and/or advise NIST, the DNA synthesis community, and/or customers and users of synthetic DNA in the implementation and use of new frameworks, tools, and/or best practices.

Expected outcomes

Ebrc's findings and any associated recommendations will be reported in a white paper describing the characteristics, structure, and properties of a federally developed SOC database that would foster innovation in screening, enable the improvement of existing systems, and build confidence of all stakeholders. Many innovations in screening may also serve to advance other life sciences research. The white paper will further address relevant issues with high specificity, aiming to provide actionable information to USG.

Intended beneficiaries

The DNA synthesis community including companies that build or use nucleic acid screening systems, and/or customers and users of synthetic DNA will benefit from improved DNA synthesis screening tools and mechanisms for screening performance evaluation. Technical advances in secure screening systems and standards would enhance public trust and confidence in the development of emerging biotechnology products.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.