The production of high quality food whilst using breeding respecting animal welfare and environment is a main objective in Europe. Developing tools to improve animal health and to answer to economical, ethical, veterinary and safety problems is a strategic need. Use of genetic disease resistance is an attractive strategy to reduce contaminants and zoonoses, but little used because of lack of cooperation between different disciplines, research institutes and breeders. Creation of a Network of Excellence will bring together required skills and allow coordinated use of technical and methodological competencies, animal resources and facilities. This Network (300 scientists from 19 countries) working on various animal species and diseases of economic interest, will have an essential role in stimulating and integrating research and applications and in disseminating new knowledge and practice. (Texte intégral)