Safety

     In our research project, we selected the common single-celled oil-producing diatom P. tricornutum as the experimental substrate material in which we overexpressed genes related to alginate lyase using synthetic biology techniques, thereby constructing corresponding engineered algal strains. Simultaneously, we co-cultivated with Q.aquimaris bacteria that have better interaction with P. tricornutum.

     Establishing a secure and dependable working environment constitutes an integral aspect of responsible innovation and research. The FZPt-China 2023 iGEM team acknowledges the paramount significance of safety throughout our experimental endeavors, demonstrating unwavering commitment towards its preservation. The ensuing sections furnish comprehensive elucidations regarding the safety protocols and precautions implemented by our team for this iGEM project.

P. tricornutum & Q.aquimaris

     During the whole process, we engineered P. tricornutum (FUCO) in our project and applied Q. aquimaris for co-culture. After in-house identification, MCCC-1A14896 Q. aquimaris belongs to risk category 1 (BSL-1) listed in MCCC (Marine Culture Collection of China). Our engineered organisms are environmentally benign and will not spread. In our program, the use of engineered organisms will be strictly limited to the laboratory environment. In addition, we use appropriate methods to safely inactivate or dispose of bacterial cultures and wastes.

Sodium alginate immobilization

     Due to the utilization of genetically modified microalgae strains in our research, we have implemented an immobilization approach to address concerns related to biosafety, thereby effectively mitigating the potential escape of microalgae and bacteria.

     The gelation of sodium alginate occurs under mild conditions, thereby preventing the inactivation of sensitive drugs, proteins, cells, enzymes, and other active substances.

Preventing microbial contamination

     We use disinfection, autoclaving or other appropriate methods to safely inactivate or treat bacterial cultures and wastes. For fermentation waste streams, we thoroughly sanitize them prior to disposal and decanting.

Experimental assessment

     In accordance with university regulations, every member of the team operating in the lab has passed the Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Laboratory Safety Exam and received a safety certificate. We are committed to enhancing laboratory safety and have developed a series of rules for laboratory work based on the laboratory environment.

Laboratory work rules

     1.Laboratory work must remain serious, strict, rigorous, rigorous; indoor keep neat and orderly, no noise, playing, smoking.

     2.Strict health responsibility system, the laboratory should be responsible for health management, indoor health should be cleaned regularly, to keep the laboratory windows clean, no visible stains on the ground, instruments are neatly arranged, the laboratory table is spotless. Clean up the waste barrels and sink pipes after each day's experiment to prevent blockage and corrosion.

     3.Laboratory staff on duty when operating, should be in accordance with the relevant provisions of the logo, wearing lab coat, cap, shoe covers.

     4.Waste generated in the experiment is properly disposed of in accordance with relevant regulations, and highly toxic waste is uniformly handled by the laboratory, and shall not be dumped privately.

     5.Experimentally used instruments should be cleaned in a timely manner, put back to the designated location, chemicals to the drug room, but also shall not be left on the scene.

     6.Laboratory, door and corridors are not allowed to pile up debris, require clean and smooth. Ensure that the laboratory constant temperature (20 ~ 25 ℃), constant humidity (relative humidity 65 ~ 85%) dust-free, no vibration, well-ventilated.

Waste treatment

     1.When it is proved that the concentration of the waste solution has been quite small and safe, it can be discharged into the drain.

     2.Try to put the waste in a safe place for isolated storage, waste liquid should be classified according to its chemical properties, and choose suitable containers and storage locations, through the closed container storage, waiting for unified treatment.

     3.Solid waste should be collected in suitable size, medium strength packaging materials (such as cartons, woven bags, etc.), and the packaging materials are required to be intact, strong and firm.

     4.Each category of waste should be collected at the storage package labeled, in order to handle the classification.

     5.Collected laboratory waste goods, need to be required to do the appropriate records in the waste list.

     6.According to the unified deployment of the unit and the requirements of the waste disposal company for the transfer of waste, records and handover.