Viral Genetic Diversity Network (VGDN)

• Grant number: 05/01605-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Technical Training Program - Technical Training
• Start date: July 01, 2005
• End date: November 30, 2006
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Edison Luiz Durigon
• Grantee: Carolina de Souza Ferreira
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 00/11511-6 - Viral Genetic Diversity Network (VGDN): a study of genetic diversity of respiratory syncytial virus circulation in the State of São Paulo, AP.R

Abstract

Despite the relative complexity of scientific activity in the State of São Paulo, the subject of virology lacks sufficient capacity in both its basic and applied aspects, even considering the widespread activities on viral diagnosis and clinical intervention. The reasons for this are many and range from a lack of a traditional training in virology in the State to a difficulty in establishing groups acting in this multidisciplinary field, which interfaces several disciplines in the biomedical sciences. This program proposes the setting up of a network of laboratories at several research institutions in the state to study the genetic diversity of viruses within a applied science context, which will provide both competence in genetic study of viruses and relevant primary data of immediate use (e.g., monitoring vaccines, antiviral drug resistance and viral typing for information and disease associations). Several examples of the importance of this initiative will be presented herein. The establishment of a VGDN will be germane for the improvement of science and technology in the state of São Paulo and will provide much needed support for epidemiological surveillance and the control of viral communicable diseases. (AU)