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The Special Pathogens Research Network: Enabling Research Readiness
Colleen S Kraft1, Mark G Kortepeter2, Bruce Gordon3
1Colleen S. Kraft, MD, MSc, is Associate Professor, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Associate Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
Health Security
|February 20, 2019
Summary
The Special Pathogens Research Network (SPRN) was created to improve clinical research readiness for epidemics like Ebola virus disease (EVD). SPRN leverages expertise to coordinate research during outbreaks and biocontainment care.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Clinical Research Infrastructure
Background:
- The 2013-2016 Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic highlighted challenges in conducting clinical research during public health emergencies.
- Clinical research was limited in West Africa and in biocontainment units in the US and Europe treating EVD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address challenges in clinical research infrastructure identified during the West Africa EVD epidemic.
- To outline the establishment and activities of the Special Pathogens Research Network (SPRN) in the US.
- To improve readiness for conducting clinical research during infectious disease epidemics.
Main Methods:
- Establishment of the Special Pathogens Research Network (SPRN) in November 2016.
- Leveraging the expertise of 10 Regional Ebola and Other Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (RESPTCs).
- Developing and supporting infrastructure for rapid clinical research activation and coordination.
Main Results:
- SPRN provides an organizational structure to enhance clinical research capabilities.
- The network facilitates multicenter research opportunities during patient care in biocontainment units.
- SPRN aims to improve preparedness for future outbreaks of Ebola virus and other special pathogens.
Conclusions:
- The SPRN is crucial for enhancing clinical research infrastructure and readiness for infectious disease epidemics.
- Coordinated multicenter research is essential for effective response during outbreaks.
- SPRN activities address critical gaps in epidemic research identified during the EVD outbreak.
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