In an open letter, the signatories expressed that the ability to order synthetic DNA online has expedited vaccine development, facilitated fundamental research, and broadened access to capabilities that were once confined to prominent institutions. However, they also pointed out that synthetic DNA has long been viewed as a potential vulnerability within the biotechnology supply chain.
The letter stated that concerns regarding the misuse of synthetic biology are longstanding, noting that synthesis companies established the International Gene Synthesis Consortium in 2009 to create voluntary safeguards against such misuse.
Nevertheless, the signatories argued that rapid developments in artificial intelligence have intensified the urgency surrounding this issue.
The letter emphasized that AI systems have now surpassed PhD-level virologists in addressing questions related to highly specialized laboratory procedures within their domains of expertise.
While recognizing that evidence surrounding AI’s implications for current biosecurity threats is varied, the signatories warned that the knowledge barriers that have historically kept bad actors from acquiring biological weapons could “significantly erode.”
The group stressed that support for screening should not hinge on any specific perspective of AI, asserting that the case for biosecurity measures has been acknowledged by scientists and governments for many years.
The letter characterized screening as one of the most understood and least disruptive biosecurity measures available. It urged providers of synthesized DNA and manufacturers of synthesis equipment to screen orders for concerning sequences and verify the legitimacy of customers prior to fulfilling orders.
The signatories also called on providers to keep records of synthesis orders and sequence data.
According to the letter, such recordkeeping would enhance legitimate biosecurity investigations and aid in tracing threats that might bypass initial screening, especially in cases where individual sequences may not seem alarming on their own. The letter further noted that awareness of traceability can serve as a deterrent to misuse.
The group mentioned that many of the largest suppliers in the field already voluntarily screen and record orders. However, they contended that mandatory requirements are essential as the underlying technology continues to evolve.
Describing the situation as urgent, the signatories urged Congress to take action during the current legislative session.
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Among the signatories are Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind; Sam Altman, CEO and co-founder of OpenAI; Dario Amodei, CEO and co-founder of Anthropic; Alexandr Wang, chief AI officer at Meta and founder of Scale AI; and Paul Graham, founder of Y Combinator.
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