Genetics Expert Outlines Lessons in Biotech Regulations

“What would a successful, science-based regulatory regime look like for innovations produced with recombinant DNA and gene editing techniques?” Val Giddings, a genetics and evolutionary biology expert from PrometheusAB, Inc. raised this question in his article published by the Center for a New American Security.

Giddings outlined five lessons based on the experiences of US regulatory agencies that can be used as guide for policymakers in forming a system for practical risk assessment and management. He stressed that the primary purpose of regulation is to guarantee safety. Thus, looking after other national agenda should be avoided to ensure that safety is the top priority.

“Successful regulations evaluate relative risk, not absolute risk. Establishing the absolute risk associated with a product can be nearly impossible,” he also stressed in one of the lessons. Considering the lessons on regulations would help provide science-based, innovation-friendly rules that would ensure safety while encouraging innovation.

Read more lessons from the original article.