Program in Applied Ethics and Biotechnology, Joint Centre For Bioethics, Department of Public Health Sciences, Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Ontario M5G 1 L4, Canada.
Most research into genomics and other related biotechnologies is concerned with the priorities of industrialized nations, and yet a limited number of projects have shown that these technologies could help improve health in developing countries. To encourage the successful application of biotechnology to global health, we carried out a study in which we asked an international group of eminent scientists with expertise in global health issues to identify the top ten biotechnologies for improving health in developing countries. The results offer concrete guidance to those in a position to influence the direction of research and development, and challenge common assumptions about the relevance and affordability of biotechnology for developing countries.