Rationale

Genome and transcriptomes sequencing, followed by bioinformatic analyses of complex omics dataset, is a powerful tool that has now become an important part of the arsenal at disposal of parasitologists. Starting from the sequencing of genomes of parasites of interest, providing the foundations for subsequent studies, the field has now expanded to include a number of new approaches. Genomic epidemiology investigations aim at understanding the circulation and evolution of species and subspecies, and allow in-depth outbreak reconstructions. Full transcriptome gene expression analyses can now attempt to determine the response of parasites to changing conditions such as host switch or treatment. System biology approaches can be envisioned, integrating multiple types of data towards characterization of complex parasite-host systems. Ad-hoc bioinformatics methods are being developed to tackle specific questions. Based on the above we feel that the proposed symposium will generate great interest in the SOIPA audience, it will provide a forum to discuss recent, and will help newcomers to approach this field of research.