Federal Framework for Screening the Synthesis of Nucleic Acids
What does the framework entail?
Starting October 26, 2024, the US Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening (Framework), established under §4(b) of the Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, requires federally funded entities that conduct life sciences research to purchase synthetic nucleic acids and equipment from providers and manufacturers that adhere to the Framework.
Technical aspects of this Framework can be found in the ASPR Screening Framework Guidance for Providers and Users of Synthetic Nucleic Acids (October 2023) (2023 HHS Guidance) and the Companion Guide to Assist in Implementing the Recommendations of the Screening Framework Guidance for Providers and Users of Synthetic Nucleic Acids (October 2023) (Companion Guide).
More details can be found here.
Note: In September 2024, revisions to the framework added a grace period for implementation until April 2025. Additional information will be provided on this website outlining adherence to this federal requirement.
Any questions, please contact ibc@northwestern.edu.