Web-based method for translating neurodevelopment from laboratory species to humans.

Area of Science:

• Comparative neurodevelopment
• Mammalian brain development
• Developmental biology

Background:

• Biomedical research requires comparing neurodevelopmental data across mammals with varying brain growth rates.
• Existing literature is vast and difficult to integrate for cross-species analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a database-driven website for integrating and comparing mammalian neurodevelopmental events.
• To provide a tool for estimating the timing of neurodevelopmental events across species, including humans.

Main Methods:

• Developed a website utilizing statistical algorithms and a Structured Query Language database.
• Integrated 102 neurodevelopmental events from 10 mammalian species.
• Implemented Hypertext Preprocessor language for real-time data conversion and access.

Main Results:

• The website (http://translatingtime.net/) incorporates data from hamsters, mice, rats, rabbits, spiny mice, guinea pigs, ferrets, cats, rhesus monkeys, and humans.
• Statistical algorithms facilitate real-time conversion of developmental timing (postconception days) and enable predictions for missing data.
• A mechanism for submitting additional data is included to expand the database.

Conclusions:

• The web portal provides readily accessible comparative neurodevelopmental data for researchers and medical professionals.
• The tool aids in efficiently estimating neurodevelopmental event timing in humans, laboratory species, and across multiple species.
• The database facilitates a deeper understanding of evolutionary and developmental trajectories in mammalian brains.