Post-genome respiratory epidemiology: a multidisciplinary challenge.

Area of Science:

• Respiratory epidemiology
• Genetic epidemiology
• Post-genome science

Background:

• Genetic approaches are novel for respiratory epidemiologists, presenting new challenges in the post-genome era.
• Focus on asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) highlights specific research questions.
• Technological and scientific advances necessitate new methodological considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review methodological aspects of genetic and post-genome phases in respiratory epidemiology.
• To address challenges in studying the genome, transcriptome, and proteome.
• To discuss genetic epidemiology designs and analytical issues.

Main Methods:

• Review of biological aspects: genome, transcriptome, and proteome analysis.
• Examination of genetic epidemiology: case-control and family-based designs.
• Discussion of statistical analytical issues, large sample sizes, and phenotyping.
• Emphasis on environment-by-gene interactions and windows of opportunity.

Main Results:

• Identified needs include networking for standards and large sample access.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for advanced phenotyping.
• Training in genetic and epidemiological techniques is essential for researchers.

Conclusions:

• Addressing ethical, public health, and organizational aspects is vital.
• Integration of genetic and environmental factors is key for respiratory epidemiology.
• Future research requires collaboration and adaptation to new technologies.