isgnas.org

The Problem

The International Study Group on New Antimicrobial Strategies (ISGNAS) was formed in response to the recognition that development of resistance to antibiotics is becoming a serious, worldwide problem. Mankind once thought that it could control or even conquer infectious diseases. It was thought that antibiotics would solve the problem of infections and resistance to antibiotics seemed a minor nuisance. However, since anti-microbial drugs became available, resistance has developed and has continued to develop to practically every new anti-microbial drug within four to five years. Furthermore, immuno-compromised patients have increased gradually in numbers so that they now present a majority of hospitalized patents.

 

 

ISGNAS Approach and Focus

The ISGNAS is composed of a panel of experts to identify those strategies for control of microorganisms which could benefit from increased attention. An agenda is developed by ISGNAS in which an international working group is brought together to analyze new developments germane to the strategy under consideration. As appropriate, the working group convened by ISGNAS will be made up of experts representing all stages of the research and development pipeline from academic and other laboratory researchers to industry scientists. Personnel from granting and regulatory organizations may be included in the working group.

 

The directed efforts of the working group will involve public seminars as well as closed discussions (the Old Herborn University Seminar) to not only develop consensus and identification of the most effective research and development approaches, but to also promote productive interactions among those who can help make progress to better control opportunistic pathogens. Attempts will be made by the working groups to identify impediments to progress and find strategies to resolve them. As appropriate, these meetings may also be included as part of meetings of other organizations. Efforts will be made to achieve maximal dissemination of information provided through meetings developed by ISGNAS.