Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Advances in genomics and computer technologies are fueling the
development of a knowledgebase from large data sets created by high-
throughput genomic technologies using digital computation, data,
information, and networks. The integration of knowledge from various
fields such as computer science, chemistry, and biology has created a vast
opportunity by creating new research environments based upon
Cyberinfrastructure.
1
Cyberinfrastructure refers to the infrastructure
required to develop a knowledgebase based upon distributed computing,
information, and communication technology. One of the major chal-
lenges during the post-genomic era is the integration of diverse data
sets.
2
As described by Kanehisa and Bork, the main goal of bioinformat-
ics during the 1990s was to create primary databases of genes and pro-
teins.
3
Currently the focus is to extend the databases for quantitative data
from transcriptomes and proteomes and to provide interoperability
between multiple disciplines. The bioinformatics resources developed
under such endeavors are expected to assist the scientific community in
making use of the large datasets produced by high-throughput tech-
nologies in elucidation of the mechanisms of phenotypic expression.
Understanding of these mechanisms may result in the identification of
specific targets and products relevant to public health. Both PATRIC
and PathPort fall under the auspices of the Cyberinfrastructure Group at
VBI, whose goal is to provide a scalable, flexible and interoperable tech-
nology framework that facilitates biodiscovery.
Bioinformatics Resource Centers
In July 2004, NIAID funded eight centers to serve the needs of
scientists investigating select groups of pathogens, which include
many viruses. These centers will provide comprehensive genomics
resources on pathogens causing emerging or re-emerging diseases or
considered to be priorities for biodefense. We describe in this section
the general goals of NIAID's Bioinformatics Resource Centers
(BRC) initiative.
NIAID strives to understand, treat, and ultimately prevent infectious,
immunologic, and allergic diseases that threaten millions of human lives.
Within NIAID, the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
(DMID) provides grants for research to control and prevent diseases
