MouseNet database: digital management of a large-scale mutagenesis project

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Animal Models

Background:

• The Munich ENU Mouse Mutagenesis Screen is a large-scale project involving mutant production, phenotyping, and mapping.
• Managing the vast amount of data generated by this project requires a robust central database system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a central database, named MouseNet(c), for the Munich ENU Mouse Mutagenesis Screen.
• To manage and process all data generated by the mutagenesis project, supporting workflow management for core facilities and screening groups.

Main Methods:

• Development of MouseNet(c) on a Sybase platform, running on a UNIX server.
• Implementation of three major software components: Animal Management System (AMS), Sample Tracking System (STS), and Result Documentation System (RDS).
• Integration of workflow functions and plausibility checks within the database system.

Main Results:

• MouseNet(c) provides a centralized system for storing and processing all project data.
• The system offers accessibility from different client platforms via the Internet.
• MouseNet(c) is a full-featured multi-user system with access restriction and data locking mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• MouseNet(c) effectively manages the complex data requirements of the Munich ENU Mouse Mutagenesis Screen.
• The system enhances data sharing and accessibility for participating screening groups and the broader scientific community.
• MouseNet(c) represents a significant advancement in managing large-scale mutagenesis project data.