Genome Biology

official impact factor 6.89

Comment

Biodefense versus bioterrorism

Gregory A Petsko

Author Affiliations

Rosenstiel Basic Medical Sciences Research Center, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA

Genome Biology 2008, 9:108 doi:10.1186/gb-2008-9-8-108

Published: 1 September 2008

Genomics was essential for identifying the source of the deadly anthrax strain released after the September 11 terrorist attacks in the US. The same research that is needed to combat low-probability bioterror attacks is needed to combat high-probability natural infectious agents.