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From 2011.igem.org

Preliminary project descriptions

   This year, we aim to make further development of "Dr. E. coli" our project of iGEM 2010. Dr. E. coli can inject desired protein molecules into a target eukaryotic cell through a syringe like organelle named Type 3 Secretion System (T3SS). Pathogenic gram-negative bacterium such as Salmonella has T3SS. In nature it is used to inject virulence effector proteins into a target eukaryotic cell. Last year, we showed that T3SS works in E. coli by injecting GFP into RK13 cells.

   This year, we are going one step further. Using Dr. E. coli as a "nano injection system", we are planning to develop a cancer terminator or carry out direct reprogramming of somatic cells; for example we aim to induce differentiation from preadipocyte to insulin-secreting cell.

   For human practice, we are going to hold a Science Gallery. We will exhibit awesome photographs related with molecular biology in a public place and ask some questions about synthetic biology. We hope to catch the public's interest in current biotechnology and investigate the public's thoughts about synthetic biology.

Safety proposals

1. Would any of your project ideas raise safety issues in terms of:

• researcher safety,
• public safety, or
• environmental safety?

   Our study will not contain any manipulation associated with pathogenic bacteria, live salmonella bacteria. Although we are planning to use a part of Salmonella's genome which was obtained from Salmonella Genetic Stock Centre (SGSC), our instructor obtained appropriate permission from the safety officer of genetic recombination in our universities. These E. coli were acknowledged as non-pathogenic and permitted to be used under P1 safety level.

   Our lab is equipped appropriately for the manipulation and genetic recombination of bacterial cells. Team members are instructed according to the safety training manual.

2. Do any of the new BioBrick parts (or devices) that you made this year raise any safety issues? If yes,

• did you document these issues in the Registry?
• how did you manage to handle the safety issue?
• How could other teams learn from your experience?

   Currently there are no BioBricks which raise any safety issues.

3. Is there a local biosafety group, committee, or review board at your institution?

• If yes, what does your local biosafety group think about your project?
• If no, which specific biosafety rules or guidelines do you have to consider in your country?

   We have “the safety office of genetic recombination in Hokkaido University”.

4. Do you have any other ideas how to deal with safety issues that could be useful for future iGEM competitions? How could parts, devices and systems be made even safer through biosafety engineering?

   Currently we don`t have any suggestions.