An alliance to stop viruses and antimicrobial resistance

A new scientific alliance strengthens Italy’s ability to face global health challenges such as the fight against superbugs and viral threats. The Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital and the Biotecnopolo Foundation of Siena have signed a three-year collaboration agreement.

A deliberate choice. A strategic decision. The world has already witnessed devastating crises. Ebola. MERS. Covid-19. Events that changed recent history. Epidemics that exposed the fragility of healthcare systems. That showed how crucial it is to act early. To prevent. To monitor. To cure.

The partnership focuses on children. The most fragile. The most exposed. The first to suffer from new infections and antibiotic resistance. Protecting them means protecting the future.

The agreement between the two centers of excellence covers three key areas. Mapping and monitoring emerging and re-emerging diseases. Studying multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Developing new therapies, vaccines, and pediatric clinical trials.

Tiziano Onesti, President of Bambino Gesù, is clear: “This collaboration is a concrete step to make our country more prepared to face the great health challenges of the future, with special attention to the most vulnerable — children. The union of clinical and scientific expertise from Bambino Gesù and the Biotecnopolo Foundation allows us to develop shared and innovative strategies against global threats such as pandemics and antimicrobial resistance. It is a strategic alliance that strengthens Italy’s capacity to prevent and respond rapidly and effectively to infectious emergencies.”

Marco Montorsi, President of the Biotecnopolo Foundation, highlights the significance of the decision. “The Biotecnopolo was created to make Italy a global reference point for pandemic preparedness and response. In this context, we are launching a structured collaboration with Bambino Gesù through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates several areas of work. From mapping the risk of emerging diseases to characterizing microorganisms. From fighting antimicrobial resistance to developing immunotherapies and vaccines. Up to pediatric clinical trials. These are key elements to ensure a rapid and effective response to infectious threats. This alliance shows the strength of collaboration between research and clinical care to protect, above all, the youngest and the most fragile.”

Gianluca Polifrone, Director General of the Biotecnopolo, confirms this commitment. “The partnership with Bambino Gesù is a natural and necessary step for us. For decades this hospital has been an international benchmark in pediatric care and research, combining advanced clinical work with a strong scientific vocation. We share the same mission: not to work for profit, but for people’s well-being, especially children and the most vulnerable. Together we can create a unique platform to tackle global health challenges. The agreement we announce today is not just a formal act. It is a concrete commitment. It means mapping the risk of emerging diseases, studying multidrug-resistant microorganisms, and developing new pediatric therapies and vaccines. Each initiative will be defined by clear implementing agreements that regulate activities, resources, and responsibilities. This is how we intend to build a solid collaboration capable of delivering real results.”