Biological Safety Committee   5/27/03

A Biological Use Authorization (BUA) may be required for research with biological materials. The CHR asks for confirmation of a Biological Use Authorization (BUA) for studies involving gene transfer or cell therapy, for studies which expose human subjects to viral vectors or infectious agents, for studies involving transplantation of animal tissue into humans, and for studies where subjects are asked to mail or transport biological specimens outside of clinical settings. In these cases, investigators may submit a CHR application and BUA application form for concurrent review, but the CHR will not grant final approval until the BUA has been issued. However, it is best to address this issue up front by providing the relevant BUA number on the CHR application.

For more information about Biological Use Authorizations, please visit the website at UCSF Office of Research - Technical Committees or call contact Environmental Health and Safety at 476-1300. For information on biological safety at the SF VAMC, please contact the VA Clinical Research Office at 221-4810 ext. 4655.