Select agents should be defined by DNA sequence in today's era of synthetic biology

Select agents should be defined by DNA sequence in today's era of synthetic biology: "WASHINGTON -- A DNA sequence-based system to better define when a pathogen or toxin is subject to Select Agent regulations could be developed, says a new report from the National Research Council, which adds that this could be coupled with a 'yellow flag' system that would recognize requests to synthesize suspicious sequences and serve as a reference to anyone with relevant questions, allowing for appropriate follow-up."