The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) designated the Iowa State Hygienic Laboratory (SHL) an Advanced Laboratory Response Network–Biological (LRN-B) Laboratory in March 2026. SHL, a national leader in biodefense testing and preparedness, is one of only 14 laboratories nationwide with this designation.     

“Being designated an LRN-B advanced laboratory highlights the hard work and efforts of all the State Hygienic Lab’s biological threat response team,” says Michael Pentella, clinical professor in public health and director of the State Hygienic Laboratory. “The State Hygienic Laboratory protects our state and country by developing, validating, and implementing new technologies for the rapid detection of biological threats like smallpox or anthrax.”     

The LRN-B classification means that SHL has the capacity to handle a sharp increase in tests in a short amount of time and the expertise to improve testing for biological threats. In addition, SHL provides training to first responders and clinical laboratory professionals to strengthen America’s preparedness and response capabilities.     

Together, all the LRN-B sites function as an integrated network across the U.S. to ensure rapid detection, confirmation, and response to biological threats.