A new method developed by researchers allows for the identification of more infectious variants of viruses and bacteria that are spreading in human populations. This approach uses samples from infected individuals to monitor pathogens in real-time, aiding in the early detection of vaccine-evading bugs and informing the development of more effective vaccines. Additionally, the method can quickly detect emerging variants that are resistant to antibiotics, helping to guide treatment choices and limit the spread of disease.
By analyzing genetic sequencing data, the new approach provides information on the genetic changes that underlie the emergence of new variants, allowing for a better understanding of why different variants spread differently in human populations. This advancement is crucial as there are currently few systems in place to monitor emerging variants of infectious diseases, aside from established COVID and influenza surveillance programs. The new technique automates the identification of new variants by creating ‘family trees’ based on genetic changes and transmissibility, eliminating the need for expert intervention.
The new method is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of viruses and bacteria using only a small number of samples from infected individuals. This makes it particularly valuable for resource-poor settings, where traditional surveillance methods may be lacking. The researchers also tested the technique on samples of Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes whooping cough, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes Tuberculosis, successfully identifying new variants and antibiotic-resistant strains circulating in the population.
The researchers emphasize the importance of their work in the broader context of public health responses to infectious diseases, highlighting the constant threat posed by evolving pathogens. Bacteria and viruses are continuously evolving to become more efficient at spreading, leading to the emergence of new strains that can evade existing immune responses. The insights provided by the new method could revolutionize infectious disease surveillance systems globally, enabling governments to respond more effectively to emerging threats and outbreaks.
The development of effective vaccines and targeted treatments depends on the rapid identification of new variants that pose a higher risk to human populations. By analyzing genetic data and tracking the spread of pathogens, the new method offers a proactive approach to identifying and responding to infectious disease threats. Researchers believe that this work has the potential to become an integral part of infectious disease surveillance systems worldwide and could significantly impact public health responses to evolving pathogens.