RVC hosts new centre for tropical disease research
The GCNTDR will address gaps in diagnostics, surveillance and treatment.
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is to a host a new Global Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (GCNTDR).
Its new centre, formerly the London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNTDR), is to become a globally-oriented centre of excellence to support research into neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and neglected zoonotic diseases (NZDs).
The RVC hopes that its new centre will enhance the foundations of LCNTDR’s work and international reach. It is also expected to promote a One Health approach, which addresses the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.
Funded through philanthropic donations, the centre will support institutions and researchers in delivering NTD research globally. With its One Health approach, it will also address antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance as well as its implications for NTD control.
The RVC says that, with more than one billion people worldwide affected by NTDs, the GCNTDR must address gaps in diagnostics, surveillance, treatment and the integration of health services.
Addressing these issues is also a key priority on the World Health Organisation’s NTD Road Map 2021-2030, which targets the control, elimination and eradication of NTDs.
Speaking at the International Congress of Parasitology, GCNTDR director Joanna Webster said: “Neglected tropical diseases are no longer confined to the world's poorest and most remote communities. In an era of climate change, environmental disruption, and increasing global interconnectedness, their impact is evolving in ways that demand greater scientific understanding and international collaboration.
“The Centre will play a pivotal role in generating the evidence and partnerships needed to anticipate, prevent, and respond to these emerging challenges."
Prof Stuart Reid CBE, president and principal at the RVC, said: “I am delighted that the Global Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research has secured support to advance its vital work into diseases that are of international significance to human and animal health. The exciting evolution of the Centre builds on years of committed collaborative endeavour and the Royal Veterinary College is honoured to be host to an amazing cadre of scientists, and their many collaborators.
“As we seek to address major societal challenge from pathogens in rapidly changing ecosystems, the One Health paradigm is increasingly important if we are to find holistic, sustainable solutions and the Centre’s contributions will be pivotal in helping us achieve these.”
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
