Sequence Screening
Name
Jones Sequence Screening.pdf
Size
208.54 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
43ac5bc412fe18bcbaca59bc5f2071c1
Author(s)
Jones, Robert
Date Issued
December 4, 2007
Abstract
Currently the vast majority of DNA synthesis is
performed by service companies or by in-house central facilities in universities and large
companies. The DNA synthesis industry provides researchers with custom DNA at such
low cost and with such convenience that almost all synthesis work takes place in a
relatively small number of facilities.
A request for DNA synthesis requires that the customer provide the sequence of the
molecule. This creates the opportunity to monitor or screen input sequences for matches
to a database of pathogen sequences. Finding a positive match at the time the order was
received would allow the vendor to alert the relevant authority and to delay shipment of
that DNA.
I have written a software package, called BlackWatch, that implements sequence
screening. This paper will describe the operation of this system, its current shortcomings
and ways that these might be addressed.
Description
Technical Report in support of the Sloan Foundation study on DNA synthesis and governance options.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Biological Engineering
Persistent DSpace Link
