Creating a map of global DNA synthesis providers and policies
The global landscape of DNA synthesis remains unclear, with limited visibility into where synthetic DNA is produced, how providers screen their orders, and what regulations apply. IBBIS is creating a comprehensive picture of the DNA synthesis market through surveys, open-source research and stakeholder interviews. Our Global DNA Synthesis Map will fill information gaps about current screening practices, potential vulnerabilities, and where advocacy is needed to close biosecurity gaps.
Challenge: uncertainty around the global supply of synthetic DNA hampers advocacy
As DNA synthesis becomes more affordable, accessible, and globally distributed, there is an increased risk that synthetic DNA could be misused to create an modify potentially dangerous biological agents. As IBBIS works to increase the share of synthesis orders that are screened by developing tools for sequence and customer screening, we faced important uncertainties: which companies are currently selling synthetic DNA or benchtop DNA printers? Are these companies employing robust screening measures? How is potentially dangerous DNA currently accessed around the world? What policies already govern the production and transfer of synthetic DNA? Where would advocacy for new standards or regulations have the greatest impact?
IBBIS is tackling these uncertainties head-on. We began by gathering insights from associations like the Global Biofoundries Alliance and International Gene Synthesis Consortium, market research reports, and direct communications with industry experts and pathogen scientists. However, many existing information sources were incomplete or outdated, obscuring the current state of synthetic DNA production and transfer. Given its potential to create new pathogens and other biosecurity risks, mapping the production, screening practices, distribution networks, and regulatory oversight of synthetic DNA is essential for safeguarding public health and security.
Our Work: a global map of DNA synthesis providers and policies
Our goal is to build a comprehensive, global map of the synthetic DNA landscape that will both highlight current gaps and provide foundation for implementing standardized screening practices worldwide.
Our Global Synthesis Map will be publicly accessible, and we will produce additional tailored resources for policymakers, industry, and biosecurit professionals. By illuminating DNA synthesis practices worldwide, we aim to promote responsible oversight, minimize misuse risks, and safeguard scientifi advancement. To build the map, our work includes:
- Compiling existing knowledge: Reviewing current data on DNA synthesis companies and their screening practices
- Conducting new research: Filling knowledge gaps with surveys, open-source research and targeted interviews
- Mapping laws and regulations: Identifying and analyzing national policies governing synthetic DNA
- Ensuring global representation: Research and stakeholder engagement will be multilingual, including English, Portuguese, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, French, and Spanish, and will include stakeholders across Africa, Latin America, and the MENA region
- Coproducing with stakeholders: Actively seeking expert feedback, stakeholder contributions, and collaborating organizations
This structured, collaborative approach will create an actionable resource that strengthens biosecurity while supporting scientific progress.
Project Timeline
- December 2025 | Public launch of the Global Synthesis Map project
- Mid-2025 | Process research data and development of the online tool
- Late 2025 | Full release of the Global Synthesis Map and report
Team
Project Lead
Mayra Ameneiros
Contributors
- Lucas Boldrini, Mapping Research (Lusophone focus)
- Ricardo Chavez, Mapping Research (Latin America focus)
- Suryesh Namdeo, Mapping Research (India focus)
- Edyth Parker, Mapping Research (Sub-Saharan Africa focus)
- Sophie Peresson, Mapping Research (Francophone focus)