Biotechnology/Innovation

Introduction

Biotechnology refers to any technology that has a biological basis. Although it has historical roots, modern day biotechnology is largely laboratory-based and revolves around molecular studies. The range of biotechnologies that have the potential to help combat infectious diseases of poverty – from genome mapping to genetic engineering – is wide and continues to expand with advances in scientific research.

Biotechnologies, and other biomedical innovations, are likely to lead to the production of new and improved vaccines, diagnostics as well as treatments with which to tackle disease. They can also help improve the understanding of disease, disease pathology, epidemiology, and vector control, and so may help limit the effects and spread of infection.

TDR related research

TDR supports research on this topic. Our work is being conducted in the following areas:

TDR think tank
Group of over 150 worldwide experts focused on a variety of scientific topics related to infectious diseases of poverty. One group has studied biotechnology and innovation and is providing a report on gaps and opportunities in this area.
The Global Report on Research for Infectious Diseases of Poverty
The Report, which will be published in 2012, includes a chapter on innovation.