Enhancing scientific cooperation

Launching a new tool to track the emergence and spread of antimalarial resistance on World Health Day April 7, WWARN appealed for researchers to contribute to the project.

The technology is designed to support malaria researchers by simplifying data sharing, explains Ian Wright, Senior Web Database Developer:

“To encourage effective data sharing our challenge was to find a balance by producing a tool that is quick and easy to use, yet sophisticated enough to accept more detailed data on various aspects of drug resistance. “   

The online Data Submission portal, accepts data from almost any source and transforms it into a common format.  With a standardised approach, the tool produces a detailed report for the contributor based on analysis of the data.  With permission, a summary of the data is displayed on WWARN Explorer.  The format allows interactive viewing and comparison of the data, aiding collaboration between researchers.

User feedback has been invaluable throughout the development process, to refine the look and functionality.  Designed with total security and encryption, the depository is a safe location to store data.

“The launch of the Data Submission portal is a key milestone for WWARN,” said Carol Sibley, Scientific Director.  “We are keen to support the malaria community and help to enlarge the pool of accessible data so that information on antimalarial resistance can be tracked on a regional and global scale, and over time.  Combined with WWARN Explorer, these tools help to integrate information from many different sources, to monitor changes in drug efficacy and possibly to identify early signs of emerging drug resistance.”  

WWARN is working with the World Health Organization to build partnerships with researchers, public health laboratories and institutions around the world to collect all available data. Dr Ambrose Talisuna, Director of the WWARN East Africa Regional Centre, added: “Knowing where we have gaps in our knowledge is as important as collecting existing data. We need to work with local and regional networks, agencies and funders to either find missing data, or encourage countries and scientists to carry out the necessary studies. WWARN can help by providing training to ensure we collect the best possible quality data.”

Click for more information on data sharing.