Assembling unregulated DNA segments bypasses synthesis screening: regulate fragments as select agents

Nature Communications 2026 Open access

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Authors: Rey Edison, Shay A. Toner, Kevin M. Esvelt
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-67955-3
Cited by: 6
References: 13

Abstract

U.S. select agent regulations ignore easily assembled DNA fragments, making synthesis screening ineffective regardless of accuracy. We acquired unregulated DNA collectively sufficient for a skilled individual to generate 1918 influenza from dozens of providers, demonstrating that fragments must be regulated as select agents.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Influenza Virus Research Studies Forensic and Genetic Research Bacillus and Francisella bacterial research

Publication details

Journal / source
Nature Communications
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
17
Issue
1
Publication date
15 January 2026
Language
EN