Notice and apology regarding scientific misconduct in genetic recombination experiments

Osaka University found that a team of researchers of the Graduate School of Medicine consisting of a faculty member (associate professor) and 4 graduate students performed genetic recombination experiments* at an off-campus experimental facility, in which proper "containment measures" stipulated in ordinance were not taken for “Type 2 Use,” on February 27, 2022.

Type 2 Use: Use undertaken with the intention of preventing the dispersal of modified living organisms into the environment

In response, the university ordered immediate termination of the experiments and set up an investigative committee of experts to investigate the environmental impact and clarify the cause of the misconduct. The results of investigation determined that the likelihood of an accidental release of a genetically modified organism into the environment was extremely low.

This misconduct includes failing to comply with legislative and regulatory requirements: the team didn’t apply for approval for the experiments in advance. Behind these violations, there was a significant lack of understanding of regulatory compliance among those involved in this misconduct and this case also showed that the university needed to strive to prevent misconduct at work.

Osaka University is deeply sorry for this unacceptable misconduct. We will seriously take this case seriously and will do our best to prevent recurrence of misconduct by strengthening management systems for genetic recombination experiments and by carrying out thorough education and training.

For the outline of misconduct, including specific measures to prevent recurrence of misconduct, click here. (link in Japanese)

*Details of the genetic recombination experiments

Genetically modified organisms used:

Staphylococcus aureus bioluminescent bacterial strain labeled with luciferase

Objective of the experiment:

The objective of the experiment is to evaluate antibiotic effect of spinal implants.

In this experiment, the genetically modified bacteria labeled with luciferase are attached to the surface of implants and inserted into the intervertebral disc of two sheep. Bioluminescence and proliferation of the bacteria are monitored to evaluate their antibiotic effect of the spinal implants.

For inquiries regarding this matter, contact:

Research Promotion Division, Department of Research Promotion
TEL:06-6879-7031