Safety issues surrounding scientific research into infectious diseases have caused the United States government to pull federal funding for some research projects focused on super strains.
Safety issues surrounding scientific research on infectious diseases have caused the United States government to pull federal funding.
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the Department of Health and Human Services, have announced that while they are examining certain gain of function research projects, funding for this kind of research will be suspended.
Gain of function studies look at how infectious diseases can spread more easily between animals, and assess the risks associated with any possible future mutations that could make the strains stronger.
The government is reportedly taking a closer look at some studies that could make pathogens airborne, and more easily transmitted.
According to the announcement from the White House: “The funding pause will not apply to the characterization or testing of naturally occurring influenza, MERS, and SARS viruses unless there is a reasonable expectation that these tests would increase transmissibility or pathogenicity.”
The National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity and the National Research Council of the National Academies will be meeting to decide how to proceed safely with gain of function scientific research into infectious diseases.