title: Dual-use nanoresearch of concern: recognizing threat and safeguarding the power of nanobiomedical research advances in the wake of the H5N1 controversy.
abstract: The issue of dual-use leapt to the attention of the broader research community in 2012, when papers detailing the changes that allow H5N1 (avian) influenza virus to be transmitted between mammals were published after months of controversy. Although there is little overlap between nanomedical research and the organisms, toxins, and aims recognized by governing bodies as "of concern," dual-use potential is increasing along with the rapid pace of advances in nanotechnology and other converging technologies (biotechnology, information technology, and cognitive science) that introduce novel capabilities to the global community. The capacity for harmful misuse of research enabled by converging technology progress is evident in molecular manipulation of virulence factors and directed traversal of the blood-brain barrier by nanoparticles. Increased awareness on the part of nanobiomedical scientists about dual-use potential will serve the interest of public health and safety as well as the integrity of the research enterprise.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  The recent controversy about publishing vs. withholding a paper about the successful manipulation of H5N1 (avian) flu to be transmitted between mammals triggered this thought provoking "Perspective" article. Given the possibility of misusing medical research results for the purposes of bioterrorism, the ideas, moral and ethical dilemmas presented in this paper should be considered by every practicing clinician-scientist.
authors.affiliation: University of Notre Dame, Center for Nano Science and Technology, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA. keggleso@nd.edu
authors.forename: Kathleen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Eggleson
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D054045:Biological Warfare Agents; D035843:Biomedical Research / Q000379:methods*; D001812:Blood-Brain Barrier / Q000473:pathology / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / Q000254:growth & development / Q000472:pathogenicity / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D050997:Nanomedicine / Q000379:methods*; D012637:Security Measures; D014774:Virulence
chemical_list: D054045:Biological Warfare Agents