大国院士：“病原猎手”徐建国

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of Xu Jianguo, a prominent figure in pathogen research and disease control in China, emphasizing the need for advanced capabilities in discovering new pathogens and continuous technological innovation in the face of emerging infectious diseases [1][2]. Group 1: Pathogen Research and Disease Control - Xu Jianguo has dedicated over 40 years to the mission of pathogen detection and disease control, emphasizing the importance of being proactive in identifying dangerous pathogens [2]. - In 1999, Xu played a crucial role in identifying the pathogen responsible for an outbreak of hemorrhagic colitis, demonstrating the importance of rapid response and accurate diagnosis in controlling infectious diseases [3][4]. - The establishment of a reserve catalog of 80 rare pathogens in 2004 was a strategic move to prepare for future challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases [5]. Group 2: Technological Advancements and Innovations - The Chinese disease control system has shown resilience, with the average reporting time for infectious diseases reduced to 4 hours, and a network capable of identifying over 300 pathogens within 72 hours [5]. - Over the past decade, Xu's team has discovered more than 150 new bacteria and over 20 new viruses, showcasing the continuous innovation in pathogen research [6]. - The ability to decode the genomes of unknown microorganisms rapidly is crucial for transforming reactive disease control into proactive measures [6]. Group 3: Commitment to Public Health - Xu Jianguo emphasizes the commitment of Chinese disease control professionals to protect public health, stating their willingness to work diligently behind the scenes to safeguard lives [6]. - The article reflects on the historical evolution of disease control efforts in China, from rudimentary methods to advanced mobile laboratories, highlighting the dedication of past and present scientists [6].