J. MILLIS MILLER HEALTH CENTER 
COLLEGE OF MEDICINE 
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA 32610 
U.S.A. 
TELEPHONE 904 392-331 1 
BOX J — 246, JHMHC 
DEPARTMENT OF IMMUNOLOGY AND 
August 25, 1978 
M E O 1C AL MICROBIOLOGY 
Dr. Donald S. Fredrickson 
Director, National Institutes of Health 
Building 1, Room 124 
Bethesda, Maryland 20014 
Dear Dr. Fredrickson: 
I have read the Proposed Revised Guidelines for recombinant DNA research. 
In my opinion they constitute a major rational step in the right direction 
consistent with still unresolved scientific questions. In particular I am 
in agreement with the revisions concerning viral genomes which do represent 
the best information available. 
The transfer of power to decide about the level of containment required 
for many experiments to the local biosafety committees should significantly 
decrease the time involved without in any way compromising the Guidelines. 
I believe that local coinslttees which are acceptable to the N.I.H. will be 
qualified in every way to make these decisions. Clearly communications be- 
tween investigator and local committee will be easier. 
In conclusion I strongly support adoption of the Proposed Revised 
Guidelines . 
Sincerely, 
Kenneth I. Berns , M.D., Ph.D 
Professor and Chairman 
KIB:ams 
[A-53] 
EQUAL employment opportunity/affirmative action employer 
