GermOnline, a cross-species community knowledgebase on germ cell differentiation

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• GermOnline is a specialized database for genes involved in key reproductive processes.
• It integrates information on mitosis, meiosis, gamete formation, and germ line development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a centralized resource for gene expression data and curated information relevant to germ line biology.
• To facilitate community annotation and visualization of microarray data for researchers.

Main Methods:

• Data is curated by life scientists and bioinformaticists using free text, images, and Gene Ontology Consortium vocabulary.
• Information is contributed via an online form, with authors providing supporting references.
• Release 2.0 includes microarray expression data for Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Rattus norvegicus.

Main Results:

• GermOnline Release 2.0 offers curated information on approximately 700 genes from various organisms.
• Locus report pages feature links to external databases for annotation, expression, and proteome data.
• Cross-linking exists with major databases like SGD, S.cerevisiae GeneDB, and Swiss-Prot.

Conclusions:

• GermOnline serves as a valuable, community-driven knowledgebase for researchers in cell division and reproductive health.
• The database enhances accessibility to gene expression data and facilitates comparative genomics studies.