Horizon scanning synthetic biology, genetically modified microorganisms

In recent decades, molecular biological research on the biology of microorganisms has contributed significantly to the rapid development of methods for the genetic modification of living organisms. Concerns of the researchers involved regarding possible negative effects of the (micro-)organisms produced in this way on human health and the environment have contributed to the early development of guidelines to ensure biological safety when handling genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Since their initial application, the methods used to create GMOs have rapidly evolved, with faster and easier-to-use techniques available for the targeted creation of complex genetic modifications in microorganisms (GMM) and other living things, including methods for genome editing.

In order to gain an overview of the increasing number of diverse applications of GMMs, a number of horizon scanning studies on such uses have been carried out in recent years. In view of the rapid progress in the development of new GMMs, such horizon scanning studies must be continuously updated.

In recent years the speed of development of GMMs has significantly increased due in part, to the application of artificial intelligence (AI) methods in molecular biology research. The diverse application possibilities of GMMs with novel properties in the environment and the associated exposure of agricultural biotopes and natural ecosystems, give rise to a range of case-specific risk potentials that are highly relevant for the official risk assessment and for the existing requirements of nature and environmental protection.

The objective of this project is therefore to analyze the current state of knowledge on GMMs and to identify current developments and application scenarios by involving stakeholders. Based on this, risk aspects of GMM applications and the approach to risk assessment of GMMs will be discussed. The information developed in this project should provide important input for the EU-wide discussion that is just beginning on the development of concepts and methods for environmental risk assessment and environmental monitoring of GMM applications. The further development of risk assessment of GMMs is an essential aspect in the comprehensive assessment of GMM applications with regard to their effects on the achievement of international sustainability goals and their possible contribution to improving soil health and fertility, as well as to the further development of legal requirements for GMMs.