Platforms, technology and service units and research teams: working together to tackle SARS-CoV-2

The Institut Pasteur in Paris and its International Network of 32 institutes have been active in the scientific response to the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus since the very early stages of the outbreak.

Back in January, a task force composed of research teams and relevant support services was set up, overseeing the launch of 16 projects and coordinating the Institut Pasteur's research on the basis of four specific areas:

• Knowledge of the virus and its pathogenesis

• Development of new diagnostic tools, searching for antibodies with therapeutic potential

• Vaccine development

• Epidemiology and modeling to evaluate outbreak control strategies

Fourteen platforms and technology and service units (UTechS) in the C2RT and the C2RA are currently working alongside the research teams to advance these ongoing projects and propose new ones.

They are contributing their extensive expertise and know-how, especially in the following areas: omics; cell profiling; multi-scale imaging; design, production, analysis and characterization of biomolecules; high-throughput and high-content screening techniques; microfluidics and organs-on-chips; generating animal models; and clinical data management.

Whether on site or from home, the teams also ensure continued independent access to their equipment for scientists, in accordance with applicable guidelines, for priority projects. The Central Animal Facility is now hosting all projects that use animal models, taking all necessary measures to guarantee safety for those involved, biological safety for the environment, and full compliance with ethical regulations.

The platforms and UTechS are also involved, as partners or coordinators, in several project proposals already submitted or under preparation for submission to national, European and international funding bodies in response to calls for proposals launched in connection with COVID-19.

At a time when information is circulating extremely quickly (by email, on social media, etc.), today more than ever we all have a responsibility to protect the Institut Pasteur, its staff and their projects. We would remind you that it is vital not to pass on any of the information that you receive on a daily basis via various means – email, Webcampus, newsletters (BIP, RIIP-Info, etc.) – to anyone outside the Institut Pasteur. We all need to remain on our guard to protect the safety and security not only of each individual but also of the Institut Pasteur and its research.