Introduction
Throughout our team’s journey, a main focus has been to provide resources and become an inspiration for future generations of iGEMers. Our team strongly believes that every possible contribution to the iGEM community has been and will be the key towards constant improvement of iGEM’s projects and methods used in the competition.
Parts Contribution
To initiate the design and development of our biosensor, the wet lab team needed to develop a selective DNA aptamer for deltamethrin. For this purpose we conducted a screening procedure on 31 possible basic parts via docking process (in silico). Completing this process we came up with 2 final candidate DNA sequences which were then compared via the QCM experimental process to conclude on a final basic part. The part is classified as an “́Intermediate part” and its registry code is BBa_K4983000. Briefly, this basic part is a novel selective aptamer sequence regarding the binding of deltamethrin (pyrethroid) and can be used by future iGEM teams for identifying deltamethrin in various projects. Detailed information is submitted in the New Basic Part page of our wiki as well as in the respective individual page on the iGEM registry.
“Broadening our horizons towards Synthetic Biology” Booklet : Α compilation for new members of the Synthetic Biology World
Entitled “Broadening our Horizons towards Synthetic Biology”, this booklet acts as a guiding light for
those entering the world of Synthetic Biology. Since the inception of our team, we've probed deeply into the
field, acquiring knowledge and expertise as part of the process. With the aim of inspiring future
scientists, we've meticulously crafted this resource for upcoming teams, intending to convey the core of
Synthetic Biology and its diverse applications. Envisioned as a beacon of guidance, it's shaped to expedite
learning and enhance efficiency for newcomers, given our own experience of orientation seeking as iGEM
novices.
This analytical booklet distills our experiences into various chapters. At its core lies a precise
definition of Synthetic Biology and its potential to revolutionize the world, influencing even the simplest
daily tasks. Additionally, it addresses areas of moral and bioethical debate, distinguishing Synthetic
Biology from Gene Editing, dispelling common misconceptions. It also pays tribute to the most significant
real-world achievements in the field.
We hope this booklet becomes an indispensable tool for the next generation of innovators, offering a
wellspring of information and a compass for contest participation. Its simplified, organized structure is
specially designed for beginners or those who may find the contest process overwhelming. To ensure the
fulfillment of the afore-mentioned goals for the visually impaired, an audio version of this booklet is also
available via our inclusivity page.
Championing Safety: Crafting Fire Safety and Lab Safety Handbooks
Our team has taken a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of future iGEM teams and lab workers by creating two comprehensive handbooks: a Fire Safety Handbook and a Lab Safety Handbook. These invaluable resources compile a wealth of essential information customized to the demands of a laboratory environment. The Fire Safety Handbook provides critical guidance on fire prevention, response protocols, and evacuation procedures, while the Lab Safety Handbook covers a wide range of safety protocols, hazard identification, emergency procedures, and protection measurements for safe experimentation. By creating these useful handbooks, we aimed to promote a culture of safety and knowledge-sharing within the iGEM community. As we deposit these guides, we hope to empower future teams and lab personnel with the necessary tools to conduct their research responsibly and securely, fostering a safer and more productive laboratory environment for all.