Abstract: Nucleic acid synthesis is a dual-use technology that can benefit fields such as biology, medicine, and information storage. However, synthetic nucleic acids could also potentially be used negligently and ultimately cause harm, or be used with malicious intent to cause harm. Thus, this technology needs to be appropriately safeguarded. Sequence screening is one component of a biosecurity protocol for preventing such harm and consists of differentiating Sequences of Concern (SOCs) from benign sequences that are not associated with pathogenicity or toxicity. There exist many fit for-purpose tools that have been developed for DNA synthesis sequence screening. However, questions remain regarding … MORE
The Case for Limiting “Sequences of Concern” to Thosewith Demonstrated Pathogenic Function
Abstract: Screening synthetic nucleic acid orders for sequences of concern is a necessary part of a healthy biosecurity regime, but it exacts costs for nucleic acid providers. Taxonomy is and will remain a critical part of the decision-making process for screening, … MORE
Horizon Newsletter – April 2025
Accredited FGG Services to Better Serve You! Signature Science’s Advanced Genomics Laboratory has been accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) to the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 quality standard for forensic testing of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). As part of the accreditation process, our … MORE
PLANES: Plausibility Analysis of Epidemiological Signals – Published in “PLoS One”
Abstract:Methods for reviewing epidemiological signals are necessary to building and maintaining data-driven public health capabilities. We have developed a novel approach for assessing the plausibility of infectious disease forecasts and surveillance data. The PLANES (PLausibility ANalysis of Epidemiological Signals) methodology is designed to … MORE
DNA Retrieved from Spent Shell Casing Presented as Evidence in Washington, DC Homicide Case
March 31, 2025 – Spent Shell Casing evidence submitted to Signature Science for DNA extraction and analysis was presented in a Washington, DC homicide trial this week. The analyst who processed the evidence delivered expert witness testimony. From the article: “The prosecution also called a DNA expert from Signature Science who testified that most of the shell coverings she tested from the crime scene contained a possible DNA match to Gibson, based on buccal or mouth swab samples she received. She also analyzed DNA swabs taken from a firearm, which she compared to the samples from Forte, Gibson, Tre’quan Nelson, 25, recently severed … MORE
Abstract: Background There is a new framework from the United States government for screening synthetic nucleic acids. Beginning in October of 2026, it calls for the screening of sequences 50 nucleotides or greater in length that are known to contribute to pathogenicity … MORE
Signature Science selected for GSA Unrestricted OASIS+ Research and Development Contract
AUSTIN, TEXAS – March 04, 2025 – Signature Science, LLC is a recipient of an award under the General Services Administration (GSA) Unrestricted OASIS+ (One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus) contract vehicle. The company has a prime award in … MORE
Signature Science Achieves ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Accreditation for Massively Parallel Sequencing (MPS)
Achievement builds on Company’s forensic science laboratory’s accreditation scope and expands its accredited offerings into the Forensic Genetic Genealogy space. AUSTIN, TEXAS – February 25, 2025 – Signature Science’s Advanced Genomics Laboratory has been issued accreditation by ANAB, the ANSI National … MORE
Horizon Newsletter – February 2025
Laboratory Leadership at AAFS Documentary standards play a critical role in ensuring consistency, quality, and credibility in forensic science. Hosted in collaboration with Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office, our Deep-Dive session at AAFS will explore the importance of standards development, how … MORE
Abstract: The generation of forensic DNA profiles consisting of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is now being facilitated by wider adoption of next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods in casework laboratories. At the same time, and in part because of this advance, there … MORE
January 29, 2025 • A press release issued by LMI Group International, Inc. detailed the conclusion of multi-year, interdisciplinary investigation to authenticate a painting and attribute it to the artist, Vincent van Gogh. The investigation combined traditional authentication and innovative scientific methods. During … MORE