ISI 2026 discusses health innovation, international cooperation, RNA therapies, and combating disinformation on the symposium’s first day
The second day of ISI 2026 took place on Thursday, May 7, at the Museum of Modern Art (MAM) in Rio de Janeiro, bringing together national and international experts to discuss diagnostics, vaccine development, RNA-based therapies, and the challenges of disinformation in public health. The program was marked by debates on technological sovereignty, pandemic preparedness, scientific cooperation, and strengthening health communication.
The opening session featured Rosane Cuber, Director of Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz, and Ione Mendonça, Executive Director of MAM. Ione highlighted the importance of hosting the symposium in a venue that recently welcomed major international meetings, including BRICS and G20 gatherings, while also reinforcing the connection between science and culture promoted by the museum.
Rosane Cuber welcomed participants to the 10th symposium and recalled that the week marked the 50th anniversary celebrations of Bio-Manguinhos. She highlighted the illumination of Christ the Redeemer in blue earlier that week as a symbol of the celebration and stated that, beyond the tributes, the meeting represents a space for work, collective knowledge-building, and strengthening science as a public good. According to Rosane, art and science share creativity, sensitivity, and the drive to question the world. The director also reinforced the importance of scientific collaboration to guarantee equitable access to healthcare and strengthen Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS).
Diagnostics in the Face of Climate Change and New Pandemics
The first panel of the day focused on “Diagnostics for a New Era” and was coordinated by Antônio Gomes Pinto Ferreira, Deputy Director of Diagnostics at Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz. Participants included Marilda Agudo Mendonça Teixeira de Siqueira, from the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC/Fiocruz); Albert Ko, from the Yale School of Public Health and Fiocruz; and Marcela Abreu, from Anvisa.
Before the main presentations, two scientific studies were presented in oral poster format. Marcelle Bral de Mello presented the study “Clinical performance and agreement of the Bio-Manguinhos DPP HIV 1/2 Rapid ImmunoBlot for confirmatory HIV diagnosis using the Ministry of Health’s Flowchart,” addressing challenges related to HIV diagnostic confirmation, especially in remote regions with structural and laboratory limitations. The researcher highlighted the potential of the DPP Immunoblot platform to expand access to rapid diagnosis and mentioned possible applications of the technology to other diseases, such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, syphilis, and dengue, within a One Health perspective.
Next, Laís Pereira Ferreira Bento presented the study “From neglected cold to severe acute respiratory infection: human rhinovirus genomics in Brazil reveals a mosaic of diverse genotypes,” focused on genomic surveillance of Human Rhinovirus (HRV). The researcher highlighted the need to expand genomic data on respiratory viruses in Brazil and reinforced the importance of molecular surveillance for epidemiological monitoring.
Opening the main panel, Marilda Siqueira discussed the impacts of climate change on infectious diseases and health emergencies. She recalled that, in 2024, dengue reached regions previously without significant circulation of the disease, a scenario directly associated with climate change. The researcher highlighted Fiocruz initiatives such as the Climate and Health Observatory and CIDACS Clima, while warning that an influenza pandemic is considered inevitable, although it is impossible to predict when it will occur. According to her, it is necessary to prepare not only technologies, but also people and institutions for future health crises.
Albert Ko addressed the challenges of global fragmentation in the response to infectious diseases. The researcher criticized the operation of separate “silos” among sectors, networks, and regions, pointing out that the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrated the lack of global integration. He cited mpox and the Oropouche virus as examples of emerging threats expanding beyond historically affected territories and reinforced the need for integrated approaches within the One Health perspective.
Representing Anvisa, Marcela Abreu spoke about regulatory challenges posed by new health technologies. She highlighted that while innovation is usually perceived by society as something desirable, regulatory agencies are responsible for evaluating risks, establishing limits, and ensuring safety. To illustrate this difference in perception, she used the analogy of a young person interested in paragliding while the mother assumes a cautious stance similar to that of a regulatory agency. Marcela also highlighted challenges related to artificial intelligence, including data protection, cybersecurity, transparency, explainability, and risk assessment. According to her, AI is already showing significant growth in software for medical devices and across different healthcare areas.
In the final comments, Akira Homma joined the debate alongside Rosane Cuber. Rosane asked Albert Ko whether there are countries that have managed to integrate the discussed pillars more efficiently. The researcher cited experiences in Asian countries, especially South Korea. Marcela Abreu responded to questions regarding a more integrated regulatory vision, stating that although Anvisa was originally created with a focus on human health, there is openness to incorporating data and collaborations from other areas.
South-South Cooperation and Strengthening Regional Production
The second panel of the day discussed the challenges and potential of South-South cooperation in biotechnology development, technology transfer, and capacity building. Coordinated by Tiago Rocca, from the Butantan Institute, the panel brought together Priscila Ferraz, Vice President of Production and Health Innovation at Fiocruz; Iin Susanti, from Biofarma/DCVMN; Fernanda De Negri, from the Ministry of Health; and Chris Gill, from the Gates Foundation.
Opening the session, Rodrigo Soares Caldeira Brant presented the poster “Mass Spectrometry-Based Biochemical Profiling of SpiN Antigen Define Quality Control Attributes for GMP Production,” addressing quality control strategies applied to the SpiN Covid-19 vaccine. Next, Laura Alves Ribeiro Oliveira presented the study “Longitudinal follow-up of individuals with post-covid conditions: characterization of immunological biomarkers and treatment outcomes,” focused on the longitudinal follow-up of post-Covid conditions.
Participating virtually, Lin Susanti highlighted the work of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN) and emphasized the historic role of Bio-Manguinhos as one of the pioneering institutions within the international network of vaccine manufacturers from developing countries. The network works to strengthen production, innovation, research, and the supply of high-quality vaccines to approximately 170 countries, focusing on expanding equitable access to immunization. According to Lin, the DCVMN seeks to strengthen vaccine manufacturers through professional training programs, promotion of technology transfer, support for innovation, and facilitation of partnerships and financing. The initiative also promotes strategies aimed at preparedness for emerging infectious diseases and strengthening global health security.
Priscila Ferraz delivered the second presentation of the panel and took the opportunity to introduce the Global Coalition for Local and Regional Production, Innovation and Equitable Access, an initiative focused on strengthening regional production of health technologies and promoting equitable access. The coalition was created as a global international cooperation platform bringing together governments, international organizations, scientific institutions, industry, philanthropic organizations, and civil society with the goal of expanding access to vaccines, therapies, diagnostics, and other health technologies, especially for neglected diseases and vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries.
The initiative emerged as a response to structural inequalities exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic, when the geographical concentration of production capacity and the fragility of global supply chains revealed historical asymmetries in access to health technologies. In 2024, G20 Health Ministers reinforced their commitment to addressing these barriers and promoting fairer access to essential supplies.
Priscila also highlighted the launch of calls for projects focused on dengue as part of the coalition’s first operational initiatives, aimed at stimulating international collaboration, innovation, and strengthening regional productive capacities in healthcare.
Chris Gill, from the Gates Foundation, congratulated Bio-Manguinhos on its 50th anniversary and highlighted as a distinguishing feature the institution’s integration with the Brazilian Ministry of Health. According to him, this differentiates Bio-Manguinhos from other vaccine manufacturers worldwide by placing public health as its central mission. His presentation addressed challenges related to vaccine coverage and the need for combined vaccine development, especially in light of Gavi’s funding gaps. Gill mentioned diseases such as measles and yellow fever and defended South-South collaboration models as a strategy to expand access and production capacity.
Fernanda De Negri, Secretary of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Ministry of Health, began her remarks by paying tribute to Akira Homma and emphasizing the importance of bringing international debates to Brazil, especially in the face of challenges experienced by Global South countries. She highlighted the need to strengthen technological sovereignty, expand consistent public policies, and invest in international cooperation. According to Fernanda, the Brazilian government has been working to stimulate technological development through radical innovation programs and strategic partnerships, seeking to consolidate the country as a relevant actor in the global health landscape.
In the final debate, one of the central topics was the international agreement on pandemic preparedness. Iin Susanti commented on the difficulties of the negotiations and cited discussions involving pathogen sharing and access to strategic information. Tiago Rocca asked Priscila Ferraz about institutional coordination and workforce development, and she highlighted training initiatives linked to the RNA Hub, while also mentioning that Fiocruz is expected to play a strategic role in training for vaccine production and development. According to her, coalition financing is also associated with purchase commitments from member countries.
Akira Homma questioned Fernanda De Negri about challenges related to the competitiveness of national production within international procurement agreements. She replied that it is necessary to balance cost criteria with strategic response capacity for future pandemics.
The Advancement of RNA-Based Therapies
The day’s third panel was dedicated to therapeutic perspectives related to non-coding RNAs and new RNA platforms. Coordinated by Patricia Neves, from Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz, the session brought together researchers and startup representatives focused on the development of innovative therapies.
Opening the session, Renata Maria dos Santos presented the work “Analysis of Aggregates in Naked mRNA and mRNA Extracted from Lipid Nanoparticles in a mRNA Vaccine against COVID-19,” focused on aggregate analysis in messenger RNA vaccine platforms.
Next, Daniele Ramos Rocha presented the study “Bio-Manguinhos and New Generation of Vaccines: Consolidation of mRNA-LNP Production and Evaluation of Critical Quality Attributes at Pilot Scale.” The researcher highlighted the development of the first 100% Brazilian RNA platform with a patent filing in Brazil and addressed production and scale-up processes for RNA synthesis.
John Mattick, from UNSW, presented the lecture “Long Non Coding RNAs discovery and new therapies,” discussing therapeutic possibilities associated with long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their potential impact on biomedicine and precision medicine.
Paulo de Paiva Amaral, from Insper, presented the lecture “From Non-Coding RNA biology to therapeutic translation.” The researcher recalled his early career studying plants and highlighted the impact of discovering the functional complexity of the human genome. According to him, the current moment represents a strategic opportunity for Brazil to participate in the RNA revolution applied to diagnostics and therapies.
Representing the startup Mirscience, Lucas Rocha presented the development of synthetic RNAs targeting genetic muscle diseases. The researcher explained that the company developed the ATENA platform and a synthetic molecule called MT-29, with potential to increase muscle mass and strength. According to him, traditional therapies present limitations and toxicity for rare muscular diseases, while the new approach seeks more specific alternatives. The technology is currently in the preclinical stage.
Closing the panel, Danielle Cunha, from Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz, presented research on RNAi for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. She highlighted that RNA interference-based therapies already have international approvals and stated that the results obtained so far are promising. According to the researcher, the next step of the study will be conducting in vivo tests.
During the debate, Patricia Neves asked John Mattick about the main future bottlenecks involving non-coding RNA. The researcher responded that the possibilities are broad and that the field still holds enormous discovery potential. Akira Homma asked participants about the main barriers to transforming research into final products. Paulo Amaral highlighted funding difficulties for high-risk projects, especially up to the clinical phase. Danielle Cunha mentioned regulatory and quality control challenges, while Lucas Rocha pointed to limitations in funding and infrastructure for preclinical development in Brazil.
Scientific Communication and the Challenges of Disinformation
Closing the day’s program, the final panel addressed the challenges of disinformation in public health and the role of scientific communication. Coordinated by Margareth Dalcolmo, the session brought together Carolina Ofranti Sampaio, Flavia Ferrari, and Billy Nascimento.
Before the main lectures, Manoela Ribeiro Bastos presented the project “MartinLab in schools: promoting science communication through the educational board game CARTelas,” an initiative aimed at science communication on advanced therapies and CAR-T cells for high school students through educational games.
Opening the panel, Margareth Dalcolmo highlighted that denialism and disinformation are not new phenomena, although they have gained new proportions with social media and digital platforms. The physician shared experiences from the Covid-19 pandemic, recalling that she initially underestimated the impact of fake news and information circulation on social networks. She reported that a video recorded at the beginning of the pandemic reached millions of views within hours, expanding her participation in public debate and the media. Margareth also highlighted her current work on initiatives focused on preparedness for future pandemics.
Carolina Ofranti Sampaio, Digital Policy Advisor at the Social Communication Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic, addressed strategies for confronting disinformation in public health. According to her, disinformation has gained new characteristics in a decentralized communication environment in which digital platforms, algorithms, and filters act as mediators of information. Carolina cited studies indicating that nearly 90% of Brazilians admit to having believed fake news at some point and emphasized the impacts of disinformation and hate speech on public institutions.
The speaker also presented the Health with Science program, an interministerial initiative focused on strengthening public health policies and valuing science. The program includes actions to identify and understand disinformation, promote reliable information, and respond to the effects of disinformation networks, especially in the context of vaccination. The initiative’s five pillars are: strategic communication; training and capacity building; institutional cooperation; monitoring, analysis, and research; and accountability.
Flavia Ferrari, a biologist, educator, and science teacher in basic education, founded the movement Todos pelas Vacinas and presented experiences related to the initiative, created to strengthen positive narratives about immunization. According to her, trust cannot be imposed, but must be collectively built. The researcher also highlighted the importance of understanding different audiences and breaking informational bubbles.
Closing the panel, Billy Nascimento discussed mechanisms of influence and information assimilation based on studies in neuroeconomics and neuromarketing. According to him, the human brain does not necessarily seek facts and truth, but emotional connections. The speaker stated that disseminators of disinformation exploit these emotional dynamics and emphasized that combating fake news requires bridge-building, empathy, and understanding the languages used by different social groups. He also explained that human irrationality has its own logic and that by understanding it, it becomes possible to communicate with those who think differently.
During the final debate, Akira Homma highlighted the efforts made to combat fake news and restore public confidence in vaccination. According to him, declining vaccination coverage demonstrates that confronting disinformation must involve all sectors of society.
Text: Marcela Dobarro
Image: André Rocha
