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NIAID's Comprehensive Support Mechanisms for Antibiotic Development

Erin M Zeituni1, Erica L Raterman1

  • 1Bacteriology and Mycology Branch, Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 5601 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States.

ACS Infectious Diseases
|June 13, 2020
PubMed

Insights

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) supports antibiotic development to combat antimicrobial resistance. NIAID offers free preclinical services through the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (DMID) to aid researchers globally.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Drug Development

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat.
  • Developing new antibiotics and therapeutics is crucial to combat multidrug-resistant organisms.
  • The preclinical stage of antibiotic development presents substantial challenges for researchers, often termed the "valley of death."

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases' (NIAID) commitment to addressing antimicrobial resistance.
  • To introduce the comprehensive preclinical services offered by NIAID's Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (DMID).
  • To inform investigators worldwide about available resources for developing vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics against various pathogens.

Main Methods:

  • Leveraging multiple support mechanisms to assist antibiotic developers.
  • Providing a comprehensive suite of preclinical services.
  • Making these services accessible to investigators globally at no cost.

Main Results:

  • NIAID actively supports the transition of antibiotic candidates through the challenging preclinical phase.
  • DMID's services facilitate the development of countermeasures for a wide range of infectious agents.
  • Global access to these vital preclinical resources is provided free of charge.

Conclusions:

  • NIAID is dedicated to overcoming antimicrobial resistance through strategic support and resource provision.
  • The DMID preclinical services are a key initiative to advance the development of urgently needed medical countermeasures.
  • These no-cost services aim to accelerate therapeutic and vaccine development for infectious diseases worldwide.

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