An Overview of Research Priorities in Tuberculosis

Intensified research and innovation is one of the three pillars of the End-TB Strategy launched by the World Health Organization in 2015. This underscores the essentiality of research and development to reach the ambitious targets of reducing tuberculosis (TB) incidence and deaths by 80% and 90%, respectively, by the year 2030. The development of new technologies to diagnose, treat and prevent TB requires intensification of research along the full spectrum, from fundamental research for better understanding of human TB and discovery of novel diagnostics, drugs and vaccines, to implementation/operational research, for their introduction in clinical and programmatic practices, ensuring access to those in highest need. At time of increasing antibiotic resistance and emergence of new infectious diseases, investments in TB research will enhance the feasibility and accessibility of innovations to the populations most vulnerable to this disease, and continue to produce broad benefits to health that extend well beyond the fight against TB.