A target product profile (TPP) outlines the desired ‘profile’ or characteristics of a target product that is aimed at a particular disease or diseases. TPPs state intended use, target populations and other desired attributes of products, including safety and efficacy-related characteristics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) TPPs support the development of missing health products, keeping focus on public health priorities. WHO TPPs recognize that access, equity and affordability are integral parts of the innovation process and need to be considered at all stages, not just after a product is developed.

The WHO TPP documents aim to inform product developers, regulatory agencies, procurement agencies and funders on R&D and public health priorities. They describe (1) the preferred and (2) the minimally acceptable profiles for vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics or medical devices criteria. They also provide information for funders and developers on the performance and operational characteristics expected of products if they are to meet WHO’s needs.

Diagnostic Technical Advisory Group (DTAG)

As the intensity of infection and prevalence of NTDs progressively decrease, current methods of diagnosis may not have the necessary sensitivity or specificity to support programmes through to the point of target delivery. New tests will therefore be required to determine decisions that include changing treatment frequency; when to stop mass treatment and maintain appropriate levels of surveillance; and validation, verification or certification. This also involves the development of accurate point-of-care tests that can be performed in resource-limited settings to bring them nearer to remote communities and to overcome key challenges such as healthcare-seeking behaviour, lack of disease awareness and population movement.

To that end, WHO/NTD has established a Diagnostic Technical Advisory Group (DTAG) to actively address priority areas for NTD diagnostics, to identify gaps in current provision, and to advise on the diagnostic innovations and developments required to ensure that the diagnostic process is able to properly inform decisions surrounding treatment of NTDs. You can find more information on WHO’s DTAG-NTD here.