[Collections of pathogenic viruses for addressing general biologic problems].

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Virology
• Immunology
• Biotechnology
• Ecology
• Biosafety

Context:

• Effective conservation of biodiversity and standardized research materials relies on robust pathogen strain collections.
• Current understanding of virus taxonomy and definitions of 'strain' and 'species' require refinement for museum collection activities.

Purpose:

• To discuss various approaches to virus taxonomy and define key concepts like 'strain' and 'species' for museum collections.
• To summarize a systematic methodology for collecting and maintaining pathogen strains, drawing on fifteen years of experience with hemorrhagic fever viruses.

Summary:

• The article proposes a systemic approach to pathogen collection, emphasizing the selection of species and strains based on comprehensive biological characteristics.
• Standardization and unification of pathogen maintenance methods are crucial for creating working materials, diagnostic kits, and ensuring continuity in applied research.

Impact:

• The proposed methodology provides a foundation for optimizing, unifying, and ensuring continuity in applied research.
• The study advocates for establishing a new national direction in pathogen collection, supported by federal centers dedicated to specific pathogen classes.