By Scott Thomaston, Assistant Vice President, EHSO

Some biological agents used in research are considered to be Dual Use of Research Concern (DURC) because of their ability to be used both for benevolent purposes or modified in such a way as to present risk to public health and safety, agriculture, animals, and the environment. This includes Gain of Function (GOF) research which involves studies that have the potential to increase pathogen transmissibility and virulence.  Examples include Influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) viruses.    The Environmental Health and Safety Office has responsibility for oversight of DURC studies.  

There are two US Government policies that address the oversight of life sciences DURC: 

• The United States Government Policy for Oversight of Life Sciences Dual Use Research of Concern (March 2012) 
• The United States Government Policy for Institutional Oversight of Life Sciences Dual Use Research of Concern (September 2014) 

Managing risks associated with DURC is a responsibility shared by multiple stakeholders.  As part of the recombinant DNA (rDNA) research protocol review the Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) evaluates DURC potential. Recent attention has been focused on SARS-  COV2and the potential for DURC as a biosecurity risk. Evaluation includes proper assignment of Biosafety Level as related to Risk Group and implementation of risk mitigation processes. Principal Investigators (PIs) are responsible for notifying the IBC of intent to perform DURC. It should be noted that noncompliance with US Government policies regarding DURC could result in suspension, limitation, or termination of Government funding.  

For additional information please contact EHSO at  biosafe@emory.edu.