Research Programs
The Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), or the Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases, is a collaborative scientific initiative that brings together leading researchers, clinicians, and institutions in Spain to advance the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious diseases. Funded primarily by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), REIPI aims to integrate multidisciplinary approaches to tackle infectious diseases through basic, translational, and clinical research.
REIPI’s research programs are structured around a series of interconnected thematic areas, each designed to address key scientific and clinical challenges. These programs facilitate collaboration among microbiologists, immunologists, clinicians, epidemiologists, and public health experts. One of the core goals is to ensure that discoveries in the laboratory can rapidly translate into improved diagnostic tools, therapeutic strategies, and public health policies.
1. Antimicrobial Resistance and New Therapeutics
A major area of focus for REIPI is antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the most pressing global health threats. REIPI researchers investigate the molecular mechanisms that drive resistance in pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. The program emphasizes identifying novel antimicrobial targets and developing new antibiotics or alternative treatments such as bacteriophages and antimicrobial peptides. Collaborative efforts also include evaluating the efficacy of combination therapies and stewardship interventions to reduce resistance.
2. Host-Pathogen Interactions and Immunology
Understanding how pathogens interact with human hosts is central to REIPI’s scientific mission. Research in this area explores the molecular and cellular interactions between infectious agents and the immune system. Key studies aim to elucidate how pathogens evade immune responses, cause inflammation, or trigger autoimmune reactions. This knowledge is essential for vaccine development, especially for pathogens with complex immune evasion strategies, such as HIV or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
3. Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases
The emergence of new pathogens, as seen with SARS-CoV-2, or the resurgence of old threats like dengue and tuberculosis, poses significant challenges. REIPI coordinates efforts to monitor, characterize, and respond to such diseases using genomic surveillance, epidemiological modeling, and rapid diagnostic methods. The network played an instrumental role during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to clinical trials, diagnostics, and public health strategies.
4. Clinical Research and Translational Medicine
REIPI supports numerous clinical studies aimed at improving patient outcomes in infectious diseases. These include clinical trials of new drugs and vaccines, as well as observational studies on disease progression, risk factors, and long-term effects. A major strength of REIPI is its integration with Spanish hospitals and health services, enabling real-world data collection and patient-centered research.
5. One Health and Zoonotic Infections
Recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, REIPI has established a One Health research line focusing on zoonotic diseases. These efforts involve collaborations with veterinary scientists and ecologists to track disease reservoirs, transmission pathways, and potential spillover events.
In summary, REIPI’s research programs represent a comprehensive and strategic approach to infectious disease research. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and aligning research with public health needs, REIPI is at the forefront of combating infectious threats in Spain and beyond.