Enhancing the Safety, Efficiency, and Research Capacity of the University of Pittsburgh Regional Biocontainment Laboratory to Study Virus Families of Greatest Pandemic Concern

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Abstract. In 2008, the University of Pittsburgh opened a Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL). Research at the RBL has grown significantly since then, with investigators working on several highly infectious microbial agents requiring BSL2 and ABSL2 facilities. Current RBL research projects cover multiple viruses in 5 of the 7 RNA virus families of pandemic concern as defined by NIH, including, Bunyavirales, Coronaviridae, Flaviviridae, Paramyxoviridae, and Togaviridae. The RBL is an invaluable resource for the University of Pittsburgh, western Pennsylvania, and institutions in the US, Europe and South America. Indeed, the RBL received the SARS-CoV-2 virus in mid-February, 2020, and received almost $5M in March 2020 from the international Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations to pursue vaccine development for COVID-19. The continued success of the RBL is essential for the US to conduct the necessary research to be prepared for the rapid development and testing of vaccines and therapeutics in response to future pandemics similar to the recent SARS-CoV-2. Over the last 14 years, the infrastructure and facilities in the RBL have begun to degrade, with some reaching the end of their usefulness. The focus of this application is to modernize the RBL through both upgrades and renovations that are designed to allow for continuing cutting-edge research on infectious agents of pandemic concern for many years to come. An effective and efficient RBL is a vital tool for pandemic preparedness. To accomplish our goals, 3 areas of RBL functionality and efficiency will be addressed. First, we will enhance RBL safety and longevity. Repairs or replacements will be made to the bio- containment flooring, the supply air system, the exhaust system, variable frequency drives, chiller controls, steam water heaters, diesel engine generator fuel system controls, fire alarm system, building automation system, walk-in cooler, and biometric security. Second, the efficiency of RBL operations will be enhanced by replacement of existing system lighting with energy-efficient LED lights and removal of a gas plasma sterilizer to generate much needed space. Third, the research capacity of the RBL will be enhanced by increasing rodent housing capacity and purchasing additional caging for non-human primates, rabbits, and ferrets. The ultimate goal of this proposal is to ensure the RBL remains functional, efficient, and ready for rapid response to future emerging pandemics.