The binding database: overview and user's guide

The large and growing body of experimental data on molecular binding is of enormous value in biology, pharmacology, and chemistry. Applications include the assignment of function to biomolecules, drug discovery, molecular modeling, and nanotechnology. However, binding data are difficult to find and access because they are available almost exclusively through scientific journals. BindingDB, a public, web-accessible database of measured binding affinities, is designed to address this problem. BindingDB collects data for natural and modified biomolecules and for synthetic compounds, and provides detailed experimental information. Currently, measurements by isothermal titration calorimetry are fully supported; measurements by enzyme inhibition will soon be included as well. The web site allows data to be searched by a range of criteria, including binding thermodynamics, sequence homology, and chemical structure, substructure, and similarity. Experimentalists are encouraged to publicize their data by entering it into BindingDB via the online forms. Such data can be updated or revised by the depositor, if necessary, and will remain publicly accessible. User involvement and feedback are welcomed.