Application of multi-omics technologies to decipher rabies pathogenesis

Abstract

Rabies virus infection has affected human and animal health since ancient times and existing treatments are only partially effective. A thorough understanding of rabies virus pathogenesis is required to achieve improved treatment options and the eventual elimination of the disease. In recent years, multi-omics technology has emerged as a powerful tool for understanding viral pathogenesis. However, multi-omics data is lacking for the rabies virus. The aim of this review is to summarize our current understanding of rabies pathogenesis and its study using omics approaches. Several mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to rabies pathogenesis using the results of omics studies. Using data from different omics levels, we highlight the potential role of pathways involved in host immunity and cytoskeletal protein expression in rabies pathogenesis. Future studies should focus on in-depth investigation of these pathways as well as the discovery of potential drug targets. This review will be beneficial to scientists interested in investigating viral pathogenesis with molecular tools, especially in rabies.