Autor: |
Casadevall A; Former Chair of the American Academy of Microbiology Committee of Governors, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA., Imperiale MJ; Chair of Steering Committee of Workshop on Impact Assessment of Research on Infectious Agents, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA., Nguyen NK; Director of the American Academy of Microbiology, American Society for Microbiology, Washington, USA., Sperandio V; Chair of the American Academy of Microbiology Committee of Governors, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA. |
Abstrakt: |
The American Academy of Microbiology convened a workshop bringing together scientists with varied opinions on the conduct of gain-of-function research of concern (GOFROC) and enhanced pathogen with pandemic potential (ePPP) research. Five findings were: (1) research on infectious agents is necessary for understanding, monitoring, and developing treatments and prevention measures against these agents; (2) gain-of-function research of concern or ePPP research makes up a very small fraction of all biological research; (3) clearly defined terminologies for research of concern should be developed by the scientific community to avoid public confusion and highlight its practical benefits; (4) harmonized biorisk management standardization, training, mentoring, and reporting can help improve safety and security for laboratory workers and the public; and (5) expanded engagement and collaboration of scientists with policymakers and the public, including increased transparency on the risks and rewards of research with infectious agents, is needed. |