Biosafety aspects of genetically modified microalgae as a new tool in modern agriculture

Having considered that genetically modified organisms and their products are increasingly being used in the developing countries, observing biosafety rules and legislations as a tool to guarantee products` safety is recommended. Although biotechnology simulates the same mechanisms as the nature’s, however, some concerns about its potential risks and consequences when used inconsiderately have been raised. Therefore, it is undeniable that like other newtechnologies, biotechnological applications could carry some potential risks too. Having all taken into consideration, it could be concluded that exploiting new opportunities created by genetic engineering approaches is feasible provided that appropriate risk analysis and applying scientific methods for decreasing or preventing the risks involved, are performed. In this paper, the various aspects of bioethics and biosafety of introduction and application of genetically engineered microalgae are discussed. Also, the potential applications of these microorganisms and their bioproducts in social health and hygiene, bioremediation and green fuel production have been reviewed. The unique physiologic abilities turn microalgae as a prominent tool in reaching the goals of biotechnology in line with biosafety aspects.