Dual Use Research of Concern: Perspective of Clinicians from a Training Viewpoint.

Oluwatoyin Oladimeji,Olawale Oladimeji,Sean Kennedy

doi:10.31646/gbio.16

Oluwatoyin Oladimeji, Olawale Oladimeji + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.31646/gbio.16

Copy DOI

Abstract

The field of Dual use research of concern (DURC) has been rapidly expanding in the last decade. Though this has led to unprecedented breakthroughs in Life sciences and Technology, it is also associated with significant risks. These risks are enormous, transcend local and national boundaries and have the potential of catastrophic effects. Some of these include the release of highly infectious pathogens capable of sparking unnatural outbreaks, with resultant widespread illness and deaths. Yet Clinicians who are significant first responders involved in the management of cases in outbreaks, often lack relevant training on DURC and its associated risks. We propose that the World Health Organization (WHO) should develop global guidelines on the integration of relevant DURC training into undergraduate and postgraduate medical curricula. In addition, country-level national policy should be developed by each member country in line with their specific context.

Highlights

More than ever in history, the immense growth in biological sciences and technology has led to a phenomenal increase in the creation and modification of infectious pathogens using genetic engineering [1]
We recommend the need for global guidelines and country-level national policy on inclusion of Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) training in undergraduate and postgraduate medical curricula
The global challenge of DURC Research classified as DURC has enormous benefits with respect to understanding mutations that lead to transmissibility, antimicrobial resistance, prevention of genetic disorders, and drug and vaccine development

Summary

Introduction

More than ever in history, the immense growth in biological sciences and technology has led to a phenomenal increase in the creation and modification of infectious pathogens using genetic engineering [1]. The global challenge of DURC Research classified as DURC has enormous benefits with respect to understanding mutations that lead to transmissibility, antimicrobial resistance, prevention of genetic disorders, and drug and vaccine development. It is associated with a significant risk of intentional or accidental release of novel infectious agents, with far-reaching global consequences [1,2,3,4,5]. There is the need for a highly coordinated, dynamic and robust program that adequately engages all important stakeholders (clinicians included) that are directly or indirectly affected by or involved with DURC, as well as those charged with the responsibility of biosecurity

The perspective of clinicians on DURC training as first responders

Findings

Conclusion