What characteristics distinguish the NIH review process from others that my protocol may have to undergo?
The NIH review process was established in response to public and scientific concern about the special ethical, scientific, and safety dimensions of gene transfer research. Thus, a salient and unique feature of the NIH review process is public discussion during meetings of the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee or RAC. The RAC is composed of experts with diverse backgrounds, expertise, and points of view. The RAC is thereby constituted to provide full, in-depth review of the many dimensions of human gene transfer research.
