January 29, 1978

Dr. Howard C. Goodman
Spectal Programe for Research
and Training in Tropical Diseases
World Health Organisation
1211 Geneva 27 Switzerland

Dear Howard,

I am generally in warm accord with the planning group report, and
would be happy to associate myself with it. I have just a few amendations
which I request be noted (if they are not acceptable ase consensual revisions).

1. I can of course well understand the goal~-orientation but I believe
the program will be self-defeating of there is not greater emphasis on more
fundamental biological study. This concern is answered in part, but not
fully, by the MEDC plans.

2. For example, (page 3), the take forces should endeavor to coopt
further members who are not necessarily now working on a tropical disease,
but can contribute more basic biological insights. If this is not done,
we will see too much more of the sane.

3. I concur with the priorities for the diseases listed. But I would
add certain viruses, notably yellow fever and new arenoviruses (like Lassa
fever) that may again reach global significance. E.G. The exclusion of
yellow fever from South Asia is wery poorly understood! - I do understand
there have been political problems about that.

4. For each organism there should be much greater stress on biology,
life cycle, genetic variation and biochemistry!

5. What about coordination with PAHO!
Why is there no one from South America on the planning group?
6. Do you have any more detail about N*dolo? What are the university

connections there?
Good luck,

Joshua Lederberg .
Professor of Genetics

IL/rr