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Animal Health – From systems biology to translational research
Genome-enabled technologies are driving fundamental changes in the approaches used to understand mechanisms of disease, the selection of animals for beneficial health traits, and the discovery of tools to control and mitigate animal diseases. New research strategies employing high-throughput gene expression analysis are providing novel platforms for more comprehensive understanding of host–pathogen interactions. In particular regard to application of the findings that result from these ne technical capabilities, a systems biology approach has begun, is evolving in focus, and rapidly revolutionizing the analysis of whole genome responses of host and pathogens, which will ultimately lead to a better understanding of disease processes in affected animals. Concurrently, the capabilities facilitate new insights into the mechanisms through which pathogens evade host immunity, the genetic basis of host–pathogen interactions; and ultimately the discovery of novel and highly effective vaccines, drugs, biotherapeutics and integrated management strategies that ensure the abundance and safety of the food supply while maintaining its economic affordability to all.
Keywords: animal, disease, intervention