Major prospects for exploring canine vector borne diseases and novel intervention methods using 'omic technologies

Canine vector-borne diseases (cvbds) are of major socioeconomic importance worldwide. although many studies have provided insights into cvbds,there has been limited exploration of fundamental molecular aspects of most pathogens,their vectors,pathogen-host relationships and disease and drug resistance using advanced,'omic technologies. the aim of the present article is to take a prospective view of the impact that next-generation,'omics technologies could have,with an emphasis on describing the principles of transcriptomic/genomic sequencing as well as bioinformatic technologies and their implications in both fundamental and applied areas of cvbd research. tackling key biological questions employing these technologies will provide a 'systems biology' context and could lead to radically new intervention and management strategies against cvbds. © 2011 gasser et al; licensee biomed central ltd.