%0 Journal Article
%T Major prospects for exploring canine vector borne diseases and novel intervention methods using 'omic technologies
%A Robin B Gasser
%A Cinzia Cantacessi
%A Bronwyn E Campbell
%A Andreas Hofmann
%A Domenico Otranto
%J Parasites & Vectors
%D 2011
%I BioMed Central
%R 10.1186/1756-3305-4-53
%X Although difficult to estimate, the impact of canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) to dog and human populations is substantial [1-3]. Particularly bacteria (e.g., species of Rickettsia, Ehrlichia and Borrelia), protists (including species of Babesia, Leishmania and Trypanosoma), nematodes (e.g., species of Dirofilaria and Acanthocheilonema), and their vectors (including mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and/or sand flies) constitute major components of the burden of CVBDs [2-4]. With a changing global climate, in the absence of effective preventative approaches and new intervention strategies, the disease burden linked to many neglected CVBDs is likely to increase further [5]. In spite of advances made, there are still major knowledge gaps in CVBDs. These gaps exist mainly in the fundamental molecular biology, epidemiology, ecology and population genetics of causative agents and their vectors, emerging drug resistance issues as well as infection processes and virulence factors [1]. Moreover, substantial limitations in diagnosis and intervention also represent critical obstacles to the effective control of CVBDs. Although sustained research and funding have contributed significantly to an improved understanding of human vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and trypanosomiasis, this is not the case for many parasitic diseases, which are neglected in terms of research and development [6]. A fundamental change is needed, particularly in relation to CVBDs.The 'omics era has brought about substantial prospects for investigating some important pathogens and their vectors, providing insights into their epidemiology, ecology, evolution and cellular processes. Available genomes are considered to represent crucial infrastructure for elucidating novel avenues to tackle infectious diseases. However, the relatively high cost and laborious nature of molecular and biochemical research has sometimes been an impediment to progress. Revolutionary developments in a range of 'omic (e.g., genom
%U http://www.parasitesandvectors.com/content/4/1/53