51 
prevention or cure of cancer as an alternative to increasingly expensive 
treatment. The testimony of several witnesses indicated that the first 
real benefits from practical applications of recombinant DNA research 
are not far off and may be only the beginning of a vast new capability 
to benefit mankind. Major breakthroughs have already been achieved 
with the structural genes that specify insulin (used in treatment of 
diabetes) and the protein somatostatin, which has been described by 
Dr. Philip Handler. President of the National Academy of Sciences, 
as a "scientific triumph of the first order’ because of its significance for 
the understanding of the structure and function of the genetic 
apparatus. 
Nevertheless, as with any new field of scientific research, it is im- 
possible at this stage to say with absolute certainty that there are no 
future hazards attendant to such research. To date, however, there 
have been no illnesses or other harm associated with recombinant 
DNA research. Hearing testimony made it clear that there have been 
recombinant processes occurring in nature since life began, and nature 
has built-in defenses against aberrant DNA strains. (See attachment 
C.) However, we cannot ignore the theoretical risks and the necessity 
to take all reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of the 
public and the environment until further evidence is accumulated. 
The continued emphasis of the NIH guidelines in public and commer- 
cial activities is clearly justified at this time. 
There is a need for Congress to play an active role in the discussion 
and formulation of Federal science policies with respect to the conduct 
of recombinant DNA research. The Science, Technology, and Space 
Subcommittee has acted, and should continue to act. to fulfill its re- 
sponsibility for science and technology policy oversight. The hearings 
held by the subcommittee on this issue were conducted pursuant to 
its broad jurisdiction over “science, engineering, and technology re- 
search and development policy.” Chairman Stevenson is to be com- 
mended for his efforts to ensure that legislation was not passed pre- 
maturely and for holding the hearings on recombinant DNA and re- 
lated science policy issues suggested by the minority. The testimony 
presented at last fall’s hearings provides valuable insight into the hy- 
pothetical nature of the risks and the potential benefits associated with 
recombinant DNA research and its applications. 
The potential risks and benefits of regulation of scientific research 
were also explored during the subcommittee hearings. However, there 
is a need for further study and evaluation of the implications of regu- 
lation for all research in basic science and technology. The recom- 
binant DNA controversy is particularly significant since policy de- 
cisions made with respect to the conduct of recombinant DNA re- 
search and technology could significantly impact other aspects of 
scientific research and development. For that reason, it is essential 
that we move cautiously and fully explore all of the implications that 
could result from its statutorv regulation. 
REGTTLATIO X 
Mv objections to the majority report cover both the scope and im- 
pact of its regulatory recommendations. In recommending a broad 
[Appendix B — 310] 
