Recombinant DNA technology: a 20-year occupational health retrospective

During the past 20 years of recombinant DNA research and its commercial applications, neither unique occupational-health risks nor adverse effects from accidental occupational recombinant microorganisms has been reported. Such injuries as acid splashes, CNS-depressant effects from over-exposure to solvents, and infections may occur in all types of chemistry and microbiology laboratories. Because of the relative inexperience with the emerging technology of gene therapy, however, including possible vector replication or recombination, further vigilance in monitoring the safety of their applications is required.