Development of a Viral Biological-Threat Bioinformatics Resource

摘要

In response to the potential use of viruses as biological weapons, we have established the Viral Biological-threat Bioinformatics Resource (VBBR) that collects, catalogs, annotates, and analyzes genetic information related to potential viral threats. This work expands upon available knowledge of virus replication, pathogenicity, and virus-host interactions on the basis of individual protein domains, individual genes, and whole genomes. To date, we have constructed a genome and gene sequence database that has been populated with the sequence information for viruses currently listed on the NIH and CDC priority pathogen list. We have also developed a variety of analytical and visualization tools that aid in the analysis of the genomic information coded for by these viruses. Finally, the information developed as a result of this work has been made available to the scientific community through a (currently access-controlled) web site (http://vbbr.genome.uab.edu) that supports research efforts to develop environmental detectors, diagnostics, antiviral compounds, new vaccines, and animal models in support of biodefense research goals.