Creative Biolabs is dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for infectious disease research with scalable genomics approaches. Through comprehensive genomic analysis, researchers are able to identify and discover possible targets, monitor host-pathogen interactions, study pathogen evolution and predict the occurrence of drug-resistant genotypes.
Infectious diseases pose a grave threat to global health, causing significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Despite considerable advances in therapeutic interventions, humankind remains vulnerable to old enemies such as HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, and new emerging pathogens like the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This necessitates the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies to combat these formidable foes. One promising area in infectious disease research is the genomic-based therapeutic target discovery. Exploiting the plethora of genomic information of infectious organisms and their hosts has emerged as a promising way to identify new and effective therapeutic targets. Advances in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and other "-omics" technologies have massively expanded our knowledge on the molecular basis of infectious diseases. The whole genome sequencing of pathogens has revealed myriads of potential targets that can be therapeutically exploited. As more genome sequences become available, opportunities arise to discover novel therapeutic targets that may be essential for the survival or virulence of the pathogen. Meanwhile, understanding host-pathogen interactions at the genomic level can unlock the door to personalized medicine, designing therapies more tailored to an individual's genetic makeup. This can greatly enhance the efficacy and minimize the adverse reactions to treatment. Furthermore, comparative genomic analysis can shed light on the evolutionary aspects of infectious diseases, which is pivotal for predicting and managing disease emergence and spread.
1. Sample collection.
We can perform high-quality nucleic acid extraction of different samples, including tissues, body fluids, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, etc. while avoiding inhibitor residues.
2. Genome sequencing.
Whole genome sequencing is performed on pathogen samples to obtain their complete gene sequences.
3. Genomic analysis.
By comparing the gene sequence of the pathogen with that of other known pathogens, unique gene segments are identified that may be potential therapeutic targets.
4. Target validation.
Experimentally validate the identified targets, including gene knockout and drug screening, to confirm their therapeutic efficacy.
5. Results and summary.
Results surrounding the properties, mechanisms of action, and potential therapeutic effects of the targets are summarized for therapeutic target discovery.
Fig. 1 Methods for whole-genome analysis of pathogens.1
Genome sequencing.
We offer high-throughput sequencing technology that can quickly and accurately determine the genome sequence of samples. Extracting the samples' DNA and then sequencing them allows for the discovery of variants or mutations associated with the development of infectious diseases.
Gene expression analysis.
Combined with transcriptomics services, it is possible to understand the expression levels of genes associated with infectious diseases. This helps to determine which genes play a key role in the disease process and to find potential therapeutic targets.
Gene function annotation.
Functional annotation of genomic data using various bioinformatics tools and databases. These annotations can reveal more thoroughly the functions, pathways, and regulatory networks of genes, thus providing clues for therapeutic target discovery.
Bioinformatics analysis.
We provide a variety of bioinformatics analysis services, such as variant analysis, differential expression analysis, and gene regulatory network analysis. These analytical methods can serve to reveal key factors and pathways in the mechanisms of infectious diseases.
At Creative Biolabs, you can expect customized genomics solutions. Whether it is a study for a specific infectious disease or a project that requires overall genomics analysis, we can provide you with professional support.
Title: Pathogen-associated gene discovery workflows for novel antivirulence therapeutic development
Journal: EBioMedicine
Authors: Wing Yin Venus Lau, Patrick K. Taylor, Fiona S.L. Brinkman, Amy H.Y. Lee
Abstract: Novel therapeutics to manage bacterial infections are urgently needed as the impact and prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) grows. Antivirulence therapeutics are an alternative approach to antibiotics that aim to attenuate virulence rather than target bacterial essential functions, while minimizing microbiota perturbation and the risk of AMR development. Beyond known virulence factors, pathogen-associated genes (PAGs; genes found only in pathogens to date) may play an important role in virulence or host association. Many identified PAGs encode uncharacterized hypothetical proteins and represent an untapped wealth of novel drug targets. Here, we review current advances in antivirulence drug research and development, including PAG identification, and provide a comprehensive workflow from the discovery of antivirulence drug targets to drug discovery. We highlight the importance of integrating bioinformatic/genomic-based methods for novel virulence factor discovery, coupled with experimental characterization, into existing drug screening platforms to develop novel and effective antivirulence drugs.
An integrated antivirulence drug development workflow from drug target to drug discovery.
Anti-Virus Biomolecular Discovery- Creative Biolabs
Anti-Virus Biomolecular Discovery- Creative Biolabs
Creative Biolabs provides genomics services to support infectious disease research at various stages. Please contact us for more details about our genomics services and to discuss your project needs with our research team.
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