RNA virus genomics: a world of possibilities.
The increasing availability of complete genome sequences of RNA viruses has the potential to shed new light on fundamental aspects of their biology. Here, I use case studies of 3 RNA viruses to explore the impact of genomic sequence data, with particular emphasis on influenza A virus. Notably, the studies of RNA virus genomics undertaken to date largely focused on issues of evolution and epidemiology, and they have given these disciplines new impetus. However, genomic data have so far made fewer inroads into areas of more direct importance for disease, prevention, and control; thus, harnessing their full potential remains an important goal.
Holmes
Edward C
EC
Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, Mueller Laboratory, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA. ech15@psu.edu
D003715:Dengue / Q000821:virology; D003716:Dengue Virus / Q000235:genetics; D014644:Genetic Variation; D016679:Genome, Viral; D023281:Genomics; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D009980:Influenza A virus / Q000235:genetics; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000821:virology; D017720:Molecular Epidemiology; D010802:Phylogeny; D012328:RNA Viruses / Q000235:genetics*