12 
"RecaTibinant DNA represents only one technique for 'genetically engineering' 
organisms. This group has not addressed the question of whether other 
techniques warrant similar review. In responding to the Gore Report, our 
deliberations have centered on organisms vhich are created by alteration 
of DNA by recombinant DNA techniques as defined by the NIH Guidelines. 
"Whatever the mechanism for review of "deliberate release" of genetically 
engineered organisms, we believe that both research and commercial releases 
should be subject to prereview. 
" Responses 
"(1) No comment. 
"(2^ We endorse the concept of a single task force with the responsiblity and 
expertise to consider release of genetically engineered organisms, but 
for recombinant ENA-containing organisms, we believe the RAC currently 
best serves this function. 
While there is a need for a set of general principles which should be 
considered for all deliberate releases, we are skeptical of the feasiblity 
of developing a uniform set of testing requirements for all organisms and 
all environmental situations. We believe an appropriately constituted 
review group to consider specific cases will be both flexible and respon- 
sive to the particular problans posed by particular releases. 
"(3) See above. 
"(4) ^he Plant Workina Grcup and this working group have contributed to an 
evolving set of procedures for evaluating experiments with plants and 
associated microorganisms. This process should continue and be applied 
to 'deliberate release' of other genetically engineered organisms as well. 
"(5) We reject this proposal. 
"(6) NIH is already responding to this suggestion in three ways: (l) changes 
in RAC membership; (2) use of ad hoc consultants to the full RAC; and 
(3) use of environmental experts on working groups of the RAC. 
" ( 7 ) No comment . " 
By a vote of 10 in favor, none opposed , and one abstention the working group 
accepted Dr . Gottesman ' s motion . 
QUESTIONS CONCERNING NTH'S APPROPRIATE OVERSIGHT BOUNDARIES 
Dr. McGarrity said Dr. Bernard Talbot, Deputy Director of the National Institute 
of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, had requested that a series of questions be 
issued for public cement and placed on the agenda for the February 6, 1984, RAC 
meeting . Dr . Talbot wrote : 
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