Description: Pathogenomics is the study of the genomes of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This discipline focuses on understanding the genetic variability of microorganisms that cause diseases, allowing for the identification of characteristics that confer virulence, resistance to treatments, and the ability to evade the immune system. Pathogenomics combines DNA sequencing techniques, bioinformatics analysis, and functional studies to unravel the biology of pathogens. Its relevance lies in the potential to develop more accurate diagnostics, specific treatments, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, pathogenomics plays a crucial role in epidemiological surveillance, enabling the tracking of outbreaks of infectious diseases and understanding their evolution. In a world where infectious diseases pose a constant threat, pathogenomics becomes an essential tool for public health and biomedical research, facilitating the fight against emerging and re-emerging pathogens.
History: Pathogenomics began to take shape in the late 1990s with the advancement of DNA sequencing technologies. One significant milestone was the sequencing of the genome of the bacterium ‘Haemophilus influenzae’ in 1995, which was the first free-living organism whose genome was completely sequenced. From there, the discipline rapidly expanded, especially with the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the 2000s, which allowed for faster and more cost-effective genome sequencing. This facilitated the study of pathogens in a genomic context, enabling researchers to analyze genetic variability and the evolution of pathogenic microorganisms.
Uses: Pathogenomics is used in various applications, including the identification of genetic markers associated with virulence and antibiotic resistance in bacteria, the development of vaccines based on the sequencing of viral genomes, and epidemiological surveillance to track disease outbreaks. It is also applied in the research of new targeted therapies and in understanding the interaction between pathogens and their hosts. Additionally, pathogenomics is fundamental in personalized medicine, where the goal is to tailor treatments to the genetic characteristics of pathogens in individual patients.
Examples: An example of pathogenomics in action is the study of the Ebola virus, where different strains have been sequenced to understand their evolution and genetic variability, aiding in the development of treatments and vaccines. Another case is the research on antibiotic resistance in ‘Escherichia coli’, where specific genes conferring resistance have been identified, allowing for the creation of strategies to combat resistant infections. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 genome has been crucial for tracking variants of the virus and assessing their impact on public health.
