Ep 43: Pathogen Focus: Dengue Virus

Summary In this episode of the Bioinformatics Lab Podcast, Kevin Libuit and Andrew Page discuss the challenges and limitations in analyzing dengue virus genomes using bioinformatics. They highlight the importance of open-source tools, the need for better data sharing, and the complexities of virus typing compared to bacteria. The conversation emphasizes the neglected status of dengue as a pathogen and the urgent need for improved methodologies in public health. Takeaways Dengue is a small but significant virus affecting warmer climates. Current mathematical tools for dengue analysis are inadequate. Open-source tools are essential for sustainable dengue typing. Phylogenetic placement is crucial for understanding circulating strains. Different countries have unique circulating dengue types. Amplicon sequencing is a viable method for dengue analysis. Data sharing in the viral world is significantly limited. The viral taxonomy system is less organized than that of bacteria. There is a pressing need for better tools and methods for dengue research. The conversation around dengue needs to be expanded and prioritized.