Technical development and innovations in life science

Authors:

  • Susanne Börjegren
  • Fredrik Ekström
  • Anders Lindblad
  • Per Stenberg
  • Per Wikström

Publish date: 2024-04-16

Report number: FOI-R--5594--SE

Pages: 38

Written in: Swedish

Keywords:

  • dual use technology
  • technical development
  • biological threat
  • chemical threat

Abstract

In this report, some twenty selected life science technology areas are described. All of them have resulted in knowledge and products that are laudable to humankind, but they are also of relevance for future possible development of biological and chemical warfare agents. The technology areas chosen are divided into three categories; development of new substances, production and distribution. There is an almost infinite space of possible chemical molecules and biological substances. Many have already been identified and investigated, but the vast majority remain undiscovered. Substances or organisms that are explored due to their positive biological affect might however also possess a negative impact on a biological system. New production methods can result in changes in traditional indicators of clandestine chemical or biological weapons program, and affect the work in existing export control regimes. Chemical and biological warfare agents need to reach the intended victim in an active form and be transported to its target. New technology and developments increasing our understanding of mechanisms and techniques enhancing the spread of these substances are discussed. The concerns identified here are relevant today, and others will arise in the future. Future development needs to be monitored, possible consequences analysed, and the assessments revised.