Experiences in Engaging the Public on Biotechnology Advances and Regulation

Public Perceptions Regarding Genomic Technologies Applied to Breeding Farm Animals: A Qualitative Study

The societal acceptability of different applications of genomic technologies to animal production systems will determine whether their innovation trajectories will reach the commercialisation stage. Importantly, technological implementation and commercialisation trajectories, regulation, and policy development need to take account of public priorities and attitudes. More effective co-production practices will ensure the application of genomic technologies to animals aligns with public priorities and are acceptable to society. Consumer rejection of, and limited demand for, animal products developed using novel genomic technologies will determine whether they are integration into the food system. However, little is known about whether genomic technologies that accelerate breeding but do not introduce cross-species genetic changes are more acceptable to consumers than those that do. Five focus groups, held in the north east of England, were used to explore the perceptions of, and attitudes towards, the use of genomic technologies in breeding farm animals for the human food supply chain. Overall, study participants were more positive towards genomic technologies applied to promote animal welfare (e.g., improved disease resistance), environmental sustainability, and human health. Animal “disenhancement” was viewed negatively and increased food production alone was not perceived as a potential benefit. In comparison to gene editing, research participants were most negative about genetic modification and the application of gene drives, independent of the benefits delivered.

Is Malaysia Ready for Human Gene Editing: A Regulatory, Biosafety and Biosecurity Perspective

Gene editing platforms have revolutionized the field of genetics with a direct impact on the public health system. Although there are apparent benefits, it is often accompanied by public debates over its uncertainties and risks. In the Malaysian context, modern biotechnology has raised questions about how to best govern gene editing in regulations, biosafety, and biosecurity. Even though standards and guidelines on stem cell and cell-based therapies have been developed, there are no appropriate legal frameworks available for gene editing yet. Nevertheless, biosafety regulations were established to balance promoting biotechnology and protecting against their potential environmental and human health risks. There is also a need to address the potential of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) as bioweapons. Numerous frameworks from several international organizations may provide valuable input in formulating documents on gene editing. By establishing comprehensive guidelines, legal policies, and standards to tackle the challenges and risks associated with gene editing, Malaysia can successfully apply this modern technology in this country.

Containment Studies of Transgenic Mosquitoes in Disease Endemic Countries: The Broad Concept of Facilities Readiness

Genetic strategies for large scale pest or vector control using modified insects are not yet operational in Africa, and currently rely on import of the modified strains to begin preliminary, contained studies. Early involvement of research teams from participating countries is crucial to evaluate candidate field interventions. Following the recommended phased approach for novel strategies, evaluation should begin with studies in containment facilities. Experiences to prepare facilities and build international teams for research on transgenic mosquitoes revealed some important organizing themes underlying the concept of "facilities readiness," or the point at which studies in containment may proceed, in sub-Saharan African settings. First, "compliance" for research with novel or non-native living organisms was defined as the fulfillment of all legislative and regulatory requirements. This is not limited to regulations regarding use of transgenic organisms. Second, the concept of "colony utility" was related to the characteristics of laboratory colonies being produced so that results of studies may be validated across time, sites, and strains or technologies; so that the appropriate candidate strains are moved forward toward field studies. Third, the importance of achieving "defensible science" was recognized, including that study conclusions can be traced back to evidence, covering the concerns of various stakeholders over the long term. This, combined with good stewardship of resources and appropriate funding, covers a diverse set of criteria for declaring when "facilities readiness" has been attained. It is proposed that, despite the additional demands on time and resources, only with the balance of and rigorous achievement of each of these organizing themes can collaborative research into novel strategies in vector or pest control reliably progress past initial containment studies.