Protecting the health, safety, and security of Americans is paramount. We do research on diseases and poisons that are considered select agents and toxins as an important part of America’s defense against naturally occurring disease and bioterrorism. This research allows us to protect our communities should danger occur.
While some of the diseases and toxins considered to be select agents are not naturally dangerous, we know that many of these organisms, if manipulated or released in large quantities, can cause serious health threats to humans or agriculture. Research of these select agents and toxins allows for the development of new tests for prevention and rapid identification, as well as the development of vaccines, drugs, and treatments that can save lives.