Will genomics revolutionize antimicrobial drug discovery?

Utilizing genome sequence data from bacterial and fungal pathogens for the discovery of new antimicrobial agents has received considerable attention, both practical and critical, from the pharmaceutical and biotechnological c ommunities. Although no new drugs derived from genomics-based discovery hav e been reported to be in a development pipeline, the utilization of genomic s has revolutionized many aspects of drug discovery. The application, utili ty, opportunity, and challenges afforded by many of these new approaches ar e discussed.