Animal husbandry and prevention of unwanted release of GM animals

A special feature regarding safety measures in animal husbandry areas are the aspects that address the prevention of the escape of genetically modified animals from such areas. The measures against unintentional release are based on the purpose of the Genetic Engineering Act (Gen TG), namely that taking into account ethical values, life and health of people, the environment in its operational framework, to protect animals, plants and material goods from harmful effects of genetic engineering processes and products and to take precautions against the emergence of such dangers (§ 1 GenTG).

Since escaped genetically modified animals could transmit genetic modifications to wild-type forms, the GenTSV also pays special attention to the issue of "unintentional release" of GMOs with regard to animal husbandry. Annex 4 of the GenTSV states the following for S1 and S2 areas:

“Animal rooms must be lockable and escape-proof for the animals housed there, and designed in such a way that any existing viable developmental stages of the animals are prevented from spreading into the environment.”

Additionally, for S2 animal husbandry areas, the following applies:

"Animal rooms must be separate buildings or clearly demarcated or shielded and spatially separated areas within buildings. All animals must be kept in enclosed and lockable rooms to eliminate the risk of theft or accidental release. Technical measures must be taken to ensure that only authorized persons can enter the animal rooms." (Appendix 4, GenTSV, S2)

How exactly escape security is to be ensured must be specifically determined (in the truest sense of the word) and coordinated with the relevant regulatory authorities. While relatively manageable measures (enclosure) can be used for large animals, such as sheep, this issue becomes more complex as the size, number, and mobility of the individuals decreases. Completely preventing the release of flying insects such as Drosophila melanogaster, for example, is and remains a challenge. The organic waste bins and their Drosophila populations in the communal kitchens of corresponding laboratory buildings would certainly be an interesting location for appropriate sampling and testing of the effectiveness of the Drosophila-specific measures taken.