Genomic databases and the search of protein targets for protozoan parasites.

The development of databases devoted to biological information opened the possibility to integrate, query and analyze biological data obtained from several sources that otherwise would be scattered through the web. Several issues arise in the handling of biological information, mainly due to the diversity of biological subject matter and the complexity of biological approaches towards phenomena of the living world. The integration of genomic data, three-dimensional structures of proteins, biological activity, and drugs availability allows a system approach to the study of the biology. Here we review the current status of these research efforts to develop genomic databases for protozoan parasites, such as the apicomplexan parasites, Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp. These databases may help in the discovery and development of new drugs against parasite-mediated diseases.