Which agency requires registration for institutions using biological agents that could pose severe risks?

The correct choice is based on the role of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in regulating biological agents that can pose significant risks to public health and safety. HHS oversees the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), both of which have established guidelines and regulations regarding the use and handling of biological agents, including pathogens that can cause severe disease.

Institutions that work with these biological agents are required to register with the appropriate governmental bodies to ensure that they meet specific safety standards and protocols. This registration process is crucial for monitoring and minimizing risks associated with the use of potentially hazardous materials in research and clinical settings.

Other agencies listed may play roles in related areas—such as environmental protection, food safety, and workplace safety—but they do not focus specifically on the registration of institutions dealing with biological agents and the associated health risks to humans.