Trump Bans Federal Funding for “Dangerous” Gain-of-Function Research

Gain-of-function research encompasses various studies aimed at understanding diseases better, including developing treatments and vaccines. However, this type of research also involves manipulating viruses to evaluate if they could potentially transfer to humans or become fatal, raising significant concerns.

Since 2012, scientists like Dutch virologist Ron Fouchier have been studying gain-of-function parameters, specifically concerning H5N1 avian influenza viruses. These efforts, aimed at determining the number of mutations necessary for the virus to infect humans, have sparked debate within the scientific community about their safety and implications.

Over the past few years, various bodies have backed certain gain-of-function studies, particularly those focused on what are termed Enhanced Potential Pandemic Pathogens (EPPPs). These pathogens are noted for their ease of transmission within human populations and their potential to cause serious illness and mortality.

Concerns over these studies led Dr. Robert Redfield and others to discuss the need for a moratorium on such research until at least 2021. Many, including Trump and his administration, have questioned whether proper safety measures and containment strategies could be guaranteed, especially outside the United States. Moreover, the advancements in artificial intelligence and analytical techniques seem to reduce the necessity for such risky research.

A significant portion of the American public believes that COVID-19 originated from a lab in Wuhan, especially given the ongoing conclusions drawn by intelligence agencies, including the FBI and CDC. This belief raises crucial questions about the implications of a potential lab origin for future research.

In light of these concerns, Trump recently issued an executive order that prevents federal funding for what he termed “dangerous” gain-of-function research in China, Iran, and even within the U.S., citing the substantial societal risks associated with this type of work.

A fact sheet from the White House notes that existing policies governing gain-of-function research have lacked sufficient enforcement and oversight for years. The order calls for an evaluation of threat levels in biological research and includes studying the risks associated with facilities like the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Although earlier attempts to regulate this research, such as pauses imposed in 2017, were ultimately ignored or reversed, Trump’s executive order marks an important step in asserting caution as the world grapples with its safety practices in biological research.