Blue Skies research is essential for ending the Tuberculosis pandemic and advancing a personalized medicine approach for holistic management of Respiratory Tract infections.

Abstract

Objectives: Investments into ‘Blue Skies’ fundamental TB research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have not been forthcoming. We highlight why blue skies research will be essential for achieving global TB control and eradicating TB. Methods: We review the historical background to early TB discovery research and give examples of where investments into basic science and fundamental ‘blue skies research’ are delivering novel data and ap- proaches to advance diagnosis, management and holistic care for patients with active and latent TB in- fection. Findings: The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that making available adequate funding for priority invest- ments into ‘Blue skies research’ to delineate scientific understanding of a new infectious diseases threat to global health security can lead to rapid development and rollout of new diagnostic platforms, treat- ments, and vaccines. Several advances in new TB diagnostics, new treatments and vaccine development are underpinned by basic science research. Conclusions: Blue Skies research is required to pave the way for a personalized medicine approach for management of TB and other Respiratory Tract Infections and preventing long-term functional disability. Transfer of skills and resources by wealthier nations is required to empower researchers in LMICs countries to engage in and lead Blue Skies research.