May 12, 2007 09:04 AM EDT
(Updated: May 12, 2007 09:08 AM EDT)
The Federation of American Scientists has added a fifth case study to our Dual-Use Research education series. This new case study focuses on the work of Dr. Stuart Levy of Tufts University School of Medicine in antibiotic resistance. Dr. Levy is also a member of the National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB). Technical advances in modern molecular biology have increased the risk that research could be used against us by those with malicious intent. It is important that biologists increase their awareness of biosecurity issues and learn to assess their research in terms of modern security concerns to minimize that possibility.The case studies presented here will help define the issues associated with “dual-use” research and security in the research lab. They include interviews with researchers whose legitimate scientific work could potentially be used for questionable or harmful endeavors, as well as a historical perspective on their research, bioterrorism, and research regulations. We have included primary scientific research papers and discussion questions that are meant to raise awareness about the importance of responsible biological research.Dr. Levy’s lab identified a gene in Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of plague, that was similar to an Escherichia coli multiple antibiotic resistance gene. A non-virulent strain of Y. pestis overexpressing the gene was resistant to several common antibiotics, including those typically used to treat plague infection. The case study includes a history of antibiotics and resistance, a description of the experiments as well as an in-depth interview with Dr. Levy discussing the work, its implications, and his perspectives on dual-use research. Dr. Levy is also one of the members of the NSABB, which is involved in developing strategies for oversight of dual-use research.
FAS has also launched a survey for the case studies. To thank participants for completing the survey, we will enter them into a drawing for an 8GB iPod nano. Click here to go to the case studies or here to go directly to the survey. The survey is open through May 31, 2007.
Please provide details below to help Gather review this content. If it is found to be inappropriate and in violation of the
Gather Terms of Service, action will be taken.
You have successfully submitted a report for this post.
rate
email
print
link to this page
Comments: 2