Final answer:
The major barriers to M. tuberculosis research are inadequate funding and a lack of access to essential research materials, paralleling issues seen in global health such as the under-treatment of AIDS in resource-poor settings. The correct option is - 2) Limited access to research materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two major barriers to M. tuberculosis research are a lack of funding and limited access to research materials. These impediments hinder the development of new treatments and a deeper understanding of the disease. Similarly, as seen in the AIDS epidemic, the scarcity of resources significantly affects the ability to treat and manage diseases in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia.
This can be parallel to the challenges faced in TB research, where financial constraints and limited research infrastructure can restrict access to necessary resources and advanced technologies. Additionally, the long treatment duration for tuberculosis and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains highlight the crucial need for sustained research efforts, which are often hampered by insufficient funding and accessibility of research materials.