New U.S. Policy Enhances Oversight of High-Risk Life Sciences Research
The U.S. government has introduced a new policy to oversee high-risk life sciences research, focusing on funding prohibitions, review requirements, and institutional responsibilities. The policy, effective from July 20, 2026, aims to improve the safety and security of biological research by replacing previous oversight frameworks. It prohibits federal funding for dangerous gain-of-function research and establishes a risk-based review process. The policy also introduces new responsibilities for principal investigators and research institutions, emphasizing the need for comprehensive risk assessments and mitigation plans.