The Challenge of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms

The OHOLO conferences are sponsored by the Israel Institute for Biological Research and take their name from the site of the ?rst meeting on the shores of Lake Kinnereth. The purpose of these meetings is, as it was at their inception over 50 years ago, “to foster interdisciplinary communication between scientists in Israel, and to provide added stimulus by the participation of invited scientists from abroad”. The core of the organizers of the OHOLO conferences are scientists from the Israel Institute for Biological Research. From time to time a particular OHOLO conference cooperates with an international scienti?c organization. The present 46th OHOLO Conference marks the resumption of the OHOLO tradition after 8 years of interruption caused by events beyond our control. It is my belief that our uncomp- mising commitment to excellence in research and development in the various areas of science in Israel is essential to our survival in this troubled region. The OHOLO conference tradition is a re?ection of this conviction. The present 46th OHOLO Conference entitled: The Challenge of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms – Mechanisms of Virulence and Novel Medical Countermeasures intends to address the unique virulence features and ho- pathogen interactions of microorganisms constituting emerging biothreat with emphasis on Y. pestis, B. anthracis, F. tularensis and Orthopox viruses. Accordingly we selected classical microbiological as well as genomic, proteomic & transcr- tomic approaches towards developments of novel prophylactic and post-exposure treatment, as well as updated strategies of diagnostics and bioforensics.

This book addresses the unique features of four microorganisms that constitute the top bioterror threat agents: Bacillus anthracis; Yersinia pestis, Francisella tularensis and Orthopoxviruses. Side-by-side updated information about their pathogenisis, virulence and epidemiology is provided in a single volume, allowing for evaluation of common features as well as common strategies for defense. Classical microbiological as well as genomic, proteomic & transcriptomic approaches towards development of strategies of novel prophylactic and post-exposure treatment and related aspects of diagnostics and bioforensics are covered. Written by top scientists, this book will be of major interest to all researchers interested in the intricate biology of highly pathogenic microorganisms, to scientists and clinicians interested in microbial pathogenesis and prevention, and to a wide range of professionals dealing with the various aspects of bio-defense.