A collective roadmap for spatiotemporal omics in combating infections

This dialogue explores the transformative potential of spatiotemporal omics in reshaping the future of infectious disease research. Experts Zhihua Ou, Ziqing Deng, George Fu Gao, Andrea Cossarizza, Wenhong Zhang, and Aldo Tagliabue discussed the integration of multi-omics technologies to obtain high-resolution, dynamic, and spatiotemporal insights into disease pathogenesis. The conversation highlighted the key technical barriers that must be addressed for the broad application of spatiotemporal omics. Strategic research priorities were outlined, with a focus on diseases with high global burden and an emphasis on a “One Health” framework. The dialogue underscored the need to prioritize omics technologies based on specific biological questions and clinical goals. Major challenges in translating basic discoveries into clinical applications, such as data standardization, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical considerations, were also examined. Finally, the experts proposed strategies for the newly established SpatioTemporal Omics Consortium (STOC) Infection Working Group to foster international collaboration through cultivating a shared vision, developing interoperable platforms, and securing sustainable funding to effectively integrate global scientific talent and resources for substantive innovations.