A new White House policy aimed at curbing so-called gain-of-function research, experiments that make pathogens more dangerous or transmissible in order to study them, is drawing mixed reactions from scientists. While some had feared even tighter restrictions, others warn the policy could still hamper research that plays a key role in preparing for future pandemics.
Supporters of gain-of-function research argue it is essential to developing vaccines, treatments and diagnostic tools capable of responding quickly to emerging diseases. Critics counter that such experiments carry real risks, from accidental release of enhanced pathogens to potential misuse, and argue tighter oversight is overdue.
The policy leaves some room for gain-of-function work considered essential to public health, but exactly how it will be enforced remains unclear. Scientists say they will be watching closely to see how strictly the rules are applied in practice, with the broader debate over how to balance research value against biosecurity risk expected to continue.
Source: medpagetoday.com
