SOURCE: a unified genomic resource of functional annotations, ontologies, and gene expression data

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Computational Biology

Background:

• The proliferation of functional genomic data, particularly from DNA microarrays, necessitates advanced resources for interpretation.
• Analyzing large-scale biological data requires integrated and accessible information platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce SOURCE, a web-based database designed for genome-scale data analysis.
• To provide a centralized resource for functional genomic information, including gene expression data and annotations.

Main Methods:

• Development of a web-based database integrating diverse biological information.
• Curation of published microarray gene expression datasets.
• Implementation of gene and cDNA clone-centric pages for data analysis.
• Inclusion of a batch interface for high-throughput data extraction and statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• SOURCE offers GeneReports with aliases, chromosomal location, functional descriptions, GeneOntology annotations, and gene expression data.
• The database facilitates the identification of co-regulated genes across various tissues and conditions.
• It supports analysis of datasets from cDNA microarrays through gene and clone-centric views.
• Continuous updates ensure the inclusion of the most recent information for human, mouse, and rat genes.

Conclusions:

• SOURCE serves as a valuable resource for interpreting large-scale functional genomic datasets.
• Its intuitive interface and batch processing capabilities enhance the efficiency of biological data analysis.
• The dynamic linking and comprehensive data integration streamline research in genomics.