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High-Throughput Transcriptome Analysis for Investigating Host-Pathogen Interactions
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Pathogen genome bioinformatics
Vitali Sintchenko1, Michael P V Roper
1Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Public Health Pathology West ICPMR, Westmead Hospital C24, Hawkesbury Road and Darcy Road, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia, Vitali.Sintchenko@swahs.health.nsw.gov.au.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|May 30, 2014
Summary
Whole-genome sequencing of pathogens is now faster and cheaper, enabling high-resolution public health surveillance. This technology aids in identifying disease clusters and guiding biosurveillance efforts for epidemic-prone pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Public Health
Background:
- Advances in DNA sequencing technology have made whole-genome sequencing of pathogens feasible.
- Pathogen genome sequencing offers new opportunities for public health surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline methods and bioinformatics tools for pathogen genome characterization.
- To discuss the identification of infectious disease clusters.
- To explore genomics-guided biosurveillance strategies.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of pathogens.
- Bioinformatics analysis of pathogen genomes.
- Comparative genomics for cluster identification.
Main Results:
- High-resolution public health surveillance is achievable through rapid pathogen sequencing.
- Genomic data facilitates the identification of infectious disease clusters.
- Genomics-guided biosurveillance provides enhanced insights.
Conclusions:
- Whole-genome sequencing is a powerful tool for modern infectious disease surveillance.
- Bioinformatics is crucial for interpreting pathogen genomic data.
- Addressing existing challenges is key to fully leveraging genomics in biosurveillance.
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