Two U.S. senators have introduced new legislation aimed at strengthening oversight of synthetic DNA sales, a move intended to prevent the misuse of genetic sequences for potentially dangerous purposes. The bill would require laboratories that synthesize DNA to screen both customers and orders, ensuring that hazardous sequences do not fall into the wrong hands.
Synthetic DNA, composed of nucleic acids—the fundamental building blocks of life—can be produced in laboratories for use in medical research, gene therapies, and agricultural innovations. In recent years, advances in artificial intelligence have enabled researchers to design novel gene sequences, which can then be synthesized using compact, bench-top machines.
The proposed law, sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, and Senator Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, directs the U.S. Department of Commerce to create a list of sequences considered potentially hazardous. Laboratories would then be required to verify that their customers are legitimate and that orders do not include sequences that could be misused to create harmful biological agents.
“While genetic material is essential for scientific breakthroughs—from combating diseases to improving crops—its misuse could have catastrophic consequences if left unchecked,” said Senator Klobuchar. Senator Cotton emphasized that innovation in biotechnology must be safeguarded without letting outdated regulations hinder progress.
The legislation also aims to consolidate existing biosecurity measures, which are currently dispersed across multiple federal agencies. By streamlining these rules, lawmakers hope to better keep pace with rapidly evolving technology and address regulatory gaps that could be exploited by malicious actors.
Concerns about synthetic DNA security are not new. Last year, the U.S. House of Representatives expressed worries over international collaborations involving gene synthesis companies, highlighting potential risks associated with sharing sensitive biological data across borders.
The bipartisan effort reflects growing attention to the intersection of biotechnology, national security, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, which can accelerate the creation of synthetic genetic sequences. Lawmakers argue that proactive regulation is critical to prevent potential misuse while supporting legitimate scientific research.
As the bill moves through Congress, laboratories, biotech firms, and the broader scientific community will likely monitor the legislation closely, balancing innovation with safety. Experts emphasize that responsible oversight can protect public health without stifling scientific discovery.
