Biolytic Lab Performance is proud to announce that our CEO, James Demmitt, was featured in the October 2025 issue of Nature in the article, “The Biothreat Hunters.” Written by Matthew Hutson, the article examines how advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity are reshaping biosecurity in synthetic biology, and how leaders across the field are collaborating to safeguard innovation.
The piece focuses on a Microsoft-led “red teaming” study that uncovered potential vulnerabilities in biosecurity-screening software used by DNA synthesis providers. The study demonstrated how AI-generated proteins could, in theory, bypass certain screening systems by mimicking the structure of known biothreats. Once identified, developers and DNA synthesis firms quickly implemented patches, greatly strengthening these biosecurity tools.
As a member of the International Gene Synthesis Consortium (IGSC), Biolytic Lab Performance is actively engaged in promoting the safe and responsible advancement of DNA synthesis. The IGSC establishes global standards for sequence and customer screening to prevent misuse of synthesis technologies, an effort Biolytic strongly supports through its products and company practices.
Demmitt emphasized in the Nature article that while no system can be completely impervious to misuse, rigorous safeguards make a powerful difference:
“Biosecurity screening does a good job stopping accidental or casual misuse. By forcing folks to go through bigger, pricier hoops, it prevents many would-be dabblers from drifting into dangerous territory.”
— James Demmitt, CEO, Biolytic Lab Performance, Inc.
At Biolytic, we remain committed to developing end-to-end oligonucleotide synthesis solutions, including our Dr. Oligo Synthesizer line, that combine precision, scalability, and responsibility. As synthesis technologies become more powerful, we’ll continue to work alongside our IGSC partners and the global scientific community to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and ethical progress.
Read the full Nature article here.
