DEPARTMENT OF RESPIRATORY VIRUSES
DEPARTMENT OF RESPIRATORY VIRUSES
We conduct fundamental research and public health activities related to exanthematous viral infections, such as measles, rubella and mumps, as well as acute respiratory infections (excluding inf luenza). Our core activities include developing diagnostics, analyzing the pathogenicity of these infectious diseases, and performing national potency testing and quality control for related vaccines. Regarding acute respiratory infections, we carry out basic and translational research, as well as quality control of vaccines and cytokine products. Our department has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Global Specialized Laboratory (GSL) for measles and rubella. We promote global public health by participating in international technical cooperation and the development of global standards.
LABORATORY OF MEASLES, MUMPS AND RUBELLA
This laboratory conducts lot release tests for measles vaccines and measles and rubella combined vaccines, and research on their quality control. The laboratory also develops laboratory diagnostic methods for measles, distributes diagnostic standards, and analyzes endemic measles virus strains. We are also conducting basic research on the pathogenicity of measles virus and the properties of measles vaccines. Together with the Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Omics, we are engaged in international cooperation as a WHO GSL, including the development of new technologies and training in laboratory diagnosis for measles.
LABORATORY OF RESPIRATORY VIRUS AND VACCINES
The laboratory is responsible for quality control of respiratory virus vaccines other than inf luenza and for research on the pathogens and mechanisms of disease caused by respiratory viruses.
LABORATORY OF RESPIRATORY VIRUSES AND CYTOKINES
The laboratory performs molecular and epidemiological studies for viruses that cause acute respiratory infections, such as, but not limited to, COVID-19, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and other respiratory infectious diseases (except for inf luenza). Studies toward the development of diagnostic methods and the elucidation of mechanisms of pathogenesis for these respiratory viruses are also conducted. In addition, the laboratory is responsible for the quality control of IFN products, and carries out investigations into the biochemical functions of cytokines (especially IFN) in viral infections.
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