2013-02-26-世界卫生组织-Report_of_the_WHO_Informal_Consultation_on_Dual_Use_Research_of_Concern_9页_148kb

BACKGROUND
The World Health Organization convened an informal consultation in Geneva on 26-28 February 2013 to address Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC). This was prompted by concerns from 2012 studies on H5N1 influenza research, which demonstrated laboratory-modified viruses could cause respiratory transmission in ferrets. DURC is defined as research intended for beneficial purposes but with potential for misuse to cause harm, such as bioterrorism.

PURPOSE AND ORGANIZATION
The consultation aimed to identify key issues, existing gaps in managing DURC-related risks, and explore possible actions and mechanisms to close these gaps. It involved plenary sessions on life sciences research benefits and challenges, and breakout groups on topics like research and public health, ethics, security, outreach, international issues, publishing, communications, biotechnology, and societal impact.

OVERVIEW OF LIFE SCIENCES RESEARCH BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES
Life sciences research generates significant public health and biomedical advancements, including vaccines, drugs, and diagnostics. However, it also poses risks when DURC occurs. Research findings can be misused to create harmful agents or increase pathogen virulence. DURC is a subset of life sciences research and applies to human, animal, plant health, and non-biological fields, raising global health security concerns.

CONSULTATION DISCUSSIONS
Participants identified DURC as a global issue affecting multiple stakeholders, including researchers, public health professionals, and governments. Key themes included:

• Management of risks throughout the research cycle, from conception to dissemination, with gaps in awareness and oversight.
• Importance of DURC oversight mechanisms that balance benefits and risks without hindering legitimate research.
• Need for country-level approaches, including inventory of guidelines and practical tools, while addressing disparities between developed and developing nations.
• Enhancement of communication and education across diverse sectors, such as security and scientific communities, to foster trust and responsibility.
• Ethical considerations prioritizing safety and minimizing conflicts between scientific progress and security.

NEXT STEPS
The WHO will engage with member states and other stakeholders to encourage effective approaches for managing DURC risks, focusing on reducing misuse potential while supporting global health security.