The UNMC Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is responsible for reviewing all research involving recombinant DNA in compliance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules. Since both the research enterprise and the regulatory environment are constantly evolving, the committee must respond to current research issues, as well as changes in regulatory guidance and standards. We are continually looking for ways to improve our compliance program, as well as our services to the campus research community.
In recent years, public watchdog groups have reported problems in the way research involving recombinant DNA was reviewed by research institutions. Institutional compliance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules is monitored by the Office of Biotechnology Activities (OBA) at the National Institutes of Health. The following is a series of questions and answers regarding OBA and UNMC requirements.
What research must comply with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules?
When an institution receives any support for recombinant DNA research from NIH, all the research conducted at that institution is subject to compliance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules.
How do the NIH Guidelines define recombinant DNA?
“In the context of the NIH Guidelines, recombinant DNA molecules are defined as;
- molecules that are constructed outside living cells by joining natural or synthetic DNA segments to DNA molecules that can replicate in a living cells, or
- molecules that result from the replication of those described above.”
Does UNMC receive support for recombinant DNA research from NIH?
Yes, so all recombinant DNA research at UNMC regardless of funding source is subject to the NIH Guidelines.
As a result of our desire to improve the research compliance program at UNMC and the University of Nebraska-Omaha, there will be regular educational updates provided for the research community. The next update will provide information on the types of projects that must be registered with the IBC. Watch the UNMC Today for additional updates.