The Recombinant DNA Debate

Phase I - early years (1971-1975)

• Introduction of SV40 DNA in E. coli planned in Summer 1971 but later postponed
• Conference held to discuss issues related to rDNA lab workers safety in June 1973
• Letters written calling for a temporary halt to rDNA experiments
• Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC) created
• Asilomar Conference held in February 1975