documentation - The INCLEN Trust

Discovery and development of tools and products for neglected diseasesOngoing workDiagnosticsChagas disease – standardizedpolymerase chain reaction protocolTDR has sponsored a multi-country process ofstandardizing and validating the use of PCR for Chagasdisease studies that could have impact both on patientsand the conduct of clinical trials. Publication of theresults and outcome of these studies are anticipatedin 2009.Drug R&DTB-HIV/AIDS – shortened regimenfor gatifloxacinA new fixed-dose combination therapy containing thefluoroquinolone gatifloxacin is under development asa TB treatment that could shorten treatment for thisdisease from 6 to 4 months. Recruitment in phase IIIstudies is now completed and a decision on whetheror not to apply for regulatory approval will be madein 2010.Human african trypanosomiasis –improving treatment regimensThere are two ongoing studies on treatments forHuman African trypanosomiasis (HAT), both aimed atimproving existing treatment regimens. One study isinvestigating a 3-day regimen of pentamidine againstthe existing 7-day regimen for early stage HAT, withfinal results still several years away. The other studyis on the use of a combination of nifurtimox andeflornithine for the treatment of late stage HAT; thisregimen has the advantage of shortening both thetreatment period (from 14 days down to 10 days) andthe interval of daily injections (from four to two daily)– both important factors in the delivery of treatment inresource-poor settings. This study has been developedand managed in conjunction with a related DNDistudy. Recruitment was completed in December 2007.The follow up of these patients will continue until June2009, after which the results will be analysed.Catalysing vector control interventionsControl of vectors is a key element in the control ofvector-borne diseases. Over the years, TDR has playeda catalytic role in vector research, supporting theactivities of international networks and initiatives andleading a pragmatic response to address the requirementsfor potential deployment – including ethical,legal and social issues of using genetically modifiedvectors (see page 32 for related empowermentactivities).African trypanosomiasis – genomicsProgress continues on sequencing the tsetse fly genomethrough TDR activities on vector control interventionsconvened consortium.Malaria – insecticide resistanceWork supported through the Multilateral Initiativefor Malaria (MIM) is contributing to continent-widedata on insecticide resistance in malaria vectors andproviding country-specific support on integrated vectormanagement. Work within the network (in BurkinaFaso) led to the establishment of a laboratory colonyof Anopheles funestus. This is a novel achievement thatwill provide a valuable resource for understandinginsecticide resistance. Further studies are also beingconducted to assess insecticide resistance mechanismsand the potential epidemiological impact of this inAfrica through TDR activities on innovative vectorcontrol interventions.26