- 2 - 
example, E. col i K-12 cannot infect and grow in humans or animals. There is no 
reason to"~believe this would differ for £. col i containing an eukaryote gene, 
even one that is functional in the bacterial Therefore, I do not think it is 
necessary to use an EK2 host, e.g. X1776 (when using non-transmissable plasmids 
as vectors), for any of the experiments permitted in the Revised Guidelines. I 
hate to point to other research that has more potential danger, but I know there 
is such, and that such research is progressing safely without guidelines because 
the scientists are informed of the dangers involved and behave accordingly. 
Molecular biologists have been handling viruses and using radioisotopes for years. 
They know how to handle them without having to write MUAs. The NIH has helped 
them do so, I realize, and I do heartily approve of the NIH studying the dangers 
in biological research and of informing those involved. I think this is the 
most important contribution to laboratory safety you can make. 
Thank you for your consideration and good luck in your efforts. 
Sincerely yours, 
Janet Stavnezer, PhD. 
Associate,, SI oan- Kettering Institute 
Assistant Professor 
SI oan- Kettering Division of Cornell 
University 
Graduate School of Medical Sciences 
JS:cv 
[A-390] 
