Mission, Organization, and Future Direction of the Serological Sciences Network for COVID-19 (SeroNet) Epidemiologic Cohort Studies

Abstract

Global efforts are needed to elucidate the epidemiology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the underlying cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) including seroprevalence, risk factors and long-term sequelae, as well as immune responses following vaccination across populations and the social dimensions of prevention and treatment strategies. In the U.S., the National Cancer Institute in partnership with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, established the SARS-CoV-2 Serological Sciences Network (SeroNet) as the nation’s largest coordinated effort to study COVID-19. The network is comprised of multidisciplinary researchers bridging gaps and fostering collaborations between immunologists, epidemiologists, virologists, clinicians and clinical laboratories, social and behavioral scientists, policy makers, data scientists, and community members. In total, 49 institutions form the SeroNet consortium to study individuals with cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, cardiovascular diseases, HIV, transplant recipients, as well as otherwise healthy pregnant women, children, college students, and high-risk occupational workers (including health care workers and first responders). Several studies focus on underrepresented populations, including ethnic minorities and rural communities. To support integrative data analyses across SeroNet studies, efforts are underway to define common data elements for standardized serology measurements, cellular and molecular assays, self-reported data, treatment, and clinical outcomes. In this paper, we discuss the overarching framework for SeroNet epidemiology studies, critical research questions under investigation, and data accessibility for the worldwide scientific community. Lessons learned will help inform preparedness and responsiveness to future emerging diseases.

The 2022 Report on the Human Proteome from the HUPO Human Proteome Project

“…64−66 The LaBaer group joined the SARS-CoV-2 Serological Sciences Network (SeroNet). 67 Lastly, to continue the dissemination of results and newly developed methodologies of interest during the pandemicimposed virtual setting in 2021, the B/D-HPP held a wellreceived webinar, entitled "SARS-CoV-2 through the lens of proteomics", in which members from different B/D-HPP teams presented their research contributions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic from the specific scientific lens of their individual teams (https://www.hupo.org/Webinars-and-Virtual-Presentations).…”

“…In response to the ongoing pandemic, the ID team joined members of other B/D-HPP teams (noted above) to elucidate the biology and pathology of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The Srivastava, Schmidt, and Volker groups, among others, established robust mass spectrometry methods for detection of SARS-CoV-2 proteins, defining protein-metabolite signature profiles and crosstalk that may predict clinical outcomes and characterize vaccine-induced complications. − The LaBaer group joined the SARS-CoV-2 Serological Sciences Network (SeroNet) …”

The Serological Sciences Network (SeroNet) for COVID-19: Depth and Breadth of Serology Assays and Plans for Assay Harmonization

“…SeroNet and FNLCR continue to work collaboratively to lay the groundwork for effective serology assay data pooling; FNLCR is currently conducting a comprehensive assay comparison study using split blinded samples sent to different SeroNet laboratories to assess the success of harmonization efforts, as well as assay performance (repeatability, sensitivity, and specificity). Currently, there is a broad range of epidemiologic studies being conducted across SeroNet, as previously described, and SeroNet’s future work will include a focus on integrated analysis of pooled data with standardization of reported data elements and assay harmonization ( 51 ).…”

3D hydrogel/ bioactive glass scaffolds in bone tissue engineering: Status and future opportunities

“…In a study conducted by Wu et al the addition of Cu 2+ into MBG scaffolds significantly promoted hypoxia-like tissue conditions and consequently led to enhanced cell recruitment , cell differentiation, and blood vessel formation, thus coupling of angiogenesis and osteogenesis. This study indicates that Cu-MBG scaffolds could induce HIF1 alfa [ 35 ] and VEGF expression hBMSCs [ 33 ]. Moreover, boron-containing MBG (B-MBG) is an excellent scaffold with significantly enhanced osteogenic properties.…”