Part 5/8:
Tyler credits SalivaDirect as the most concrete breakthrough—its simplicity, speed, and low cost made widespread testing feasible. This innovation was pivotal in enabling the NBA bubble to function safely, demonstrating how a quick, inexpensive test can have far-reaching effects.
Other research funded by Fast Grants led to novel vaccine candidates, including nasal sprays and oral pills, expanding the arsenal against COVID-19. These advancements not only contributed to the pandemic response but also demonstrated how agile funding could catalyze tangible scientific progress.