FEB 14 1968

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE

 

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
BETHESDA, MD. 20014
AREA CODE 301 TEL: 656-4000

January 29, 1968

Dr. Joshua Lederberg
Professor and Executive Head
Department of Genetics
School of Medicine

Stanford University
Stanford, California 94302

Dear Dr. Lederberg:

I am writing to you as a staff member of the Adult Development and Aging
Branch of the NICHD. The interest of our Institute lies in the support
of basic research in the biological, psychological, and sociological
aspects of development and aging.

As you are well aware, many theories have been advanced concerning the
etiology of the aging process, involving both endogenous and exogenous
factors, Certainly, a genetic basis for aging has its proponents in
the scientific community. It was, therefore, very interesting to read
recently your remarks with regard to aging and genetics in your
syndicated column which appears in the Washington Post. I refer to the
article titled DNA Breakthrough Points Way to Therapy by Virus. In
this article you state, "the replication of DNA in the test tube opens
the way to a number of new approaches to the study and treatment of
disease, It is virtually certain that in the long run, our mastery of
cancer and of senility will be reached with the help of this stepping-
stone,"

We would certainly enjoy the opportunity to speak further with you
concerning your views about the topic of aging. I am sure your schedule
is a heavy one, but perhaps on one of our future trips to California we
could make an appointment to discuss these areas of mutual interest.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Gabe J. Maletta, Ph.D.
wa hysiologist
Adult Development and Aging Branch
National Institute of Child Health
and Human Development

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