this question was so basic that it and other such questions would 
block or delay most approvals. Dr. McVicar stated that it would 
then revert back to self -declaration and volunteer compliance with 
the NIH Guidelines. He noted that researchers frequently called 
the CDC to ask if a given microorganism is infectious, and often 
the CDC has no way of answering. They needed a list of etiologic 
agents, though a mechanism to create such a list was difficult to 
envision. He believed that, because the Public Health Service had 
the greatest expertise, it should take the lead in compiling such a 
list. Perhaps the NIH Guidelines could refer to this list without 
incorporating it. 
Dr. Atlas said that recombinant DNA molecules were difficult to 
cover in the list. While a less restrictive list may be too broad, 
it would be the simplest to administer. He preferred a more 
refined list, but this would threaten to create an extremely 
complex and long exemption list that would require expert advice 
for periodic updating. 
Dr. McKinney suggested that: (1) "only etiologic" be deleted from 
the Preamble to Appendix H; and (2) plants and animals that are 
recombinant organisms be added to the definition, perhaps in 
consultation with the Department of Transportation. He asked if 
the relevant parts of the regulations would remain the same, 
despite readjustments. For example, perhaps they could refer 
solely to the part numbers rather than include the full text of 
substantive changes, which would require continual updates. Dr. 
McVicar stated that the CDC will go through an iterative process; 
the part numbers will not change, though the subparagraphs will. 
Dr. Stevenson felt that the Subcommittee should state that 
recombinant DNA molecules were not "evil" per se , and that 
recombinant DNA technology was not inherently bad. Rather, the 
Subcommittee should emphasize that exchanges of genes occur 
naturally through evolution. In his view, the public associated 
"infectious" with all recombinant DNA products, a perception that 
must change. The Subcommittee should clearly state that the RAC's 
safety methods went "overboard" because it wished to avoid taking 
chances. Dr. McVicar asked if many of the organisms were indeed 
infectious. He said that the Subcommittee should seek the simplest 
definition possible. 
To include plants and animals. Dr. Langston suggested that Appendix 
H be cross-referenced with USDA regulations. Dr. Cushmac agreed 
that animals should be included. 
The Subcommittee took a coffee break at 10:48 a.m. On Mr. Brewer's 
request, Dr. Atlas agreed to write up his suggestions for the 
replacement of Appendix H during the coffee break. 
After the coffee break. Dr. Atlas read his proposed replacement for 
Appendix H. The Preamble would state: 
[292] Recombinant DNA Research, Volume 13 
