Date: February 26, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Quorum: Met
Call to Order: The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) Chair called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
Approval of Previous Minutes
Minutes from January 29, 2026, were approved as written.
Protocols Reviewed
Title: “Hypermutator herpesviruses to accelerate experimental evolution”
NIH Guidelines: III-D-2-a, III-E-1, III-F-8, and Appendices C-I, and C-II.
Meeting Comments: In this modification, the research group is adding animal study to assess the attenuation, replication, safety, and immune response of the recoded viruses. Additionally, other genetically modified viral variants will be included to the project to allow evaluation of host–virus interactions and their impact on viral fitness and immune evasion. The project does not meet DURC/P3CO criteria, and appropriate biosafety procedures and mitigation plans are in place.
o The Committee voted unanimously to approve the motion.
- Please add more information and/or citation regarding the successful application of the 1-to-Stop principle in RNA virus systems such as SARS-CoV-2.
- Please include the objectives listed as headings. Additionally, please include that the attenuated virus will be tested in vitro before the in vivo studies. Please add the following statement: “Additional training: Staff will review the ‘Reproductive Health Hazard’ section of the K-State LSM. Pregnant individuals and immunocompromised personnel must consult with the PI and be informed of the risks associated with working with this pathogen in order to make an informed decision.”
- Please change the human cell lines to RG2.
- Please add additional details about the potential health concerns, particularly those affecting pregnant individuals and immunocompromised personnel.
Title: “Characterization of Rift Valley fever virus infection - no Select Agent work”
NIH Guidelines: III-D-1-a, III-F-8 and Appendix C-II.
Meeting Comments: The research group intends to continue studying the differences between biological sex and influenza virus pathogenesis, as well as vaccine-induced immunity and protection, in a mouse model of obesity. The project does not meet DURC/P3CO criteria, and appropriate biosafety procedures and mitigation plans are in place.
o The Committee voted unanimously to approve the motion.
Other Business: none
Adjourn: The meeting was adjourned at 9:52 a.m.