Staff Reports
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) made changes to the definition of gain-of-function research, which involves altering biological agents to make them more powerful. Lawrence Tabak, the Principal Deputy Director of NIH, confirmed this alteration, stating that experts approved the change to clarify confusion around the term. This change was questioned by Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis during a hearing, who raised concerns about the qualifications of the communications department to make such edits.
Tabak explained that the modification was intended to differentiate between the general and specific meanings of gain-of-function research. While the current NIH website does not provide a clear definition, it states that this type of research is typically not associated with creating stronger potential pandemic pathogens. This clarification was deemed necessary to address misconceptions about the research.
NIH quietly altered definition for gain-of-function research on its website, former Fauci aide confirms https://t.co/dlP6AD0X0B
— Bo Snerdley (@BoSnerdley) May 16, 2024
Dr. Anthony Fauci, a prominent figure in the COVID-19 response, has denied that the NIH funded gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) in China. However, Tabak testified that NIH did fund research at WIV, emphasizing that it hinges on the interpretation of the term. This discrepancy raises questions about the extent of US involvement in controversial research activities abroad.
The funding of bat-based coronavirus research by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which Fauci previously headed, has come under scrutiny. The NIAID provided funding to EcoHealth Alliance for studies on bat-based coronaviruses, including a transfer of funds to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. These revelations highlight the need for transparency and accountability in scientific research, especially when it involves potential risks to public health.
