Introduction
In 1995, the first microbe sequencing project, Haemophilus influenzae (a bacterium causing upper respiratory infection), was completed with a speed that stunned scientists. Encouraged by the success of that initial effort, researchers have continued to sequence an astonishing array of other medically important microbes. NIAID has made significant investments in large-scale sequencing projects. These include projects to sequence the complete genomes of many pathogens, including the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and cholera, as well as organisms that are considered agents of bioterrorism. In addition, NIAID collaborates with other funding agencies to sequence larger genomes of protozoan pathogens, such as the organism causing malaria.
The availability of microbial and human DNA sequences will open up new opportunities and allow scientists to conduct functional analyses of genes and proteins in whole genomes and cells, as well as the host immune response and an individuals' genetic susceptibility to pathogens. When scientists identify microbial genes that play a role in disease, drugs can be designed to block the activities controlled by those genes. Because most genes contain the instructions for making proteins, drugs can be designed to inhibit specific proteins, or the proteins can be used as as candidates for vaccine testing. Genetic variations can also be used to study the spread of a virulent or drug-resistant form of a pathogen.
NIAID has launched initiatives to provide comprehensive genomic, proteomic, and bioinformatic resources. These resources are available to scientists conducting basic and applied research on organisms that are considered agents of bioterrorism and those that cause emerging and re-emerging diseases.
Please direct inquiries about NIAID's pathogen genomics programs to Dr. Maria Y. Giovanni, Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, NIAID.
back to top