12 
"Cloning of genes coding for molecules toxic for vertebrates 
that have an LD50 of less that 100 nanograms per kilogram body 
weight (e.g., microbial toxins such as the botulinum toxins, 
tetenus toxin, diphtheria toxin. Shigella dysenteriae neuro- 
toxin) is prohibited." 
NIH staff preposed that this sentence be amended to read: 
"The cloning of genes coding for molecules toxic for vertebrates 
that have an LD^q of less that 100 nanograms per kilogram body 
weight (e.g., microbial toxins such as the botulinum toxins, 
tetanus toxin, diphtheria toxin. Shigella dysenteriae neuro- 
toxin) is covered under Section III-A-1 of the Guidelines and 
requires RAC review and NIH and IBC approval before initiation." 
Dr. Gottesman said the preposed change would make Appendix F consistent 
with the rest of the Guidelines and recommended approval. Dr. Martin 
moved approval. The motion was seconded. 
Cr . Gill, a member of the ad hoc Working Group on Tbxins which composed the 
language of Appendix F and an ad hoc consultant to the RAC, said he did 
not find the proposed language - obgectionable, but felt the "flavor" of 
the original proposal would be lost. Dr. Gill felt the proposed language 
gives the impression that RAC approval will be forthcoming. The original 
language did not foster this impression. He suggested that the language 
be modified to read in part: 
"...is not ordinarily allowed and is covered under Section 
III-A-1 of the Guidelines and requires RAC review and NIH 
and IBC approval before initiation." 
Dr. Nightingale moved acceptance of Dr. Gill's language as an amendment 
to Cr . Martin's motion, and Dr. Candy seconded. 
Cr . McKinney felt the language proposed by NIK staff was adequate as Section 
III-A clearly specifies the procedure to be followed. Dr. Harris concurred. 
Dr. Berns called the vote on the amendment proposed by Dr. Gill. By a 
vote of one in favor, thirteen opposed, and no abstentions, the RAC refused 
the proposed amendment. Dr. Berns then called the vote on Dr. Martin's 
motion. By a vote of fourteen in favor, none epposed, and no abstentions, 
the RAC adopted the motion. 
VIII. REQUEST TO CLONE A TOXIN GENE FROM E. COLI 
Cr. Berns said the discussion dealing with cloning a toxin gene from EC coli 
would be coupled with the discussion of a letter requesting reevaluation 
of the language specifying the conditions under vrtiich shiga toxin can be 
cloned. Dr. Berns asked Dr. Gill to begin discussion of the proposal to 
clone an E. coli toxin gene. 
flBl 
