Possible Application of Biotechnology to the Development of Biological Agents by Potential Enemies
Abstract
Biological agents, including both vegetative organisms and toxins, have posed a considerable threat to the military in the past. New developments in biotechnology, including recombinant DNA, hybridomas, fermentation, and genetics, provide the scientific basis for developing new biological agents and for modifying existing ones. Agents posing little threat in the past may become major concerns in the future. Biotechnology might be used to increase toxicity, to produce large quantities of a material, or to alter the method of delivery. This report begins with a brief description of different disciplines that collectively constitute biotechnology and then describes how selected agents could be modified. The author did not attempt to analyze the technical expertise of potential enemies or investigate their ongoing military research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADB113338
Entities
People
- William E. White
Organizations
- Edgewood Chemical Biological Center