Trump's week in review: Stops gain-of-function research, opens 'MyGender' dolls investigation
4. Trump admin. establishes new policy seeking to stop gain-of-function research
In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the release of the United States Government Policy for Stopping High-Risk Life Sciences Research.
The policy specifically singles out “dangerous gain-of-function (DGOF) research” and “international research of concern” as types of research that “should not be undertaken domestically or abroad under any circumstance.”
As explained in the document, gain-of-function research “enhances a property or properties of a biological agent in ways that make it more dangerous” and “could result in significant negative societal consequences.”
The concept of gain-of-function research has gained increased attention and scrutiny following the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal funding for “dangerous gain-of-function research” is prohibited under the new policy.
As for “international research of concern,” federal funding for any life science research taking place in countries of concern or by institutions of concern or individuals of concern is prohibited.
Ryan Foley is a reporter for The Christian Post. He can be reached at: ryan.foley@christianpost.com
