EpiVar Browser: advanced exploration of epigenomics data under controlled access

Area of Science:

• Genomics and Epigenomics
• Computational Biology
• Data Privacy

Background:

• Large-scale human epigenomic datasets are crucial for understanding normal and disease chromatin states.
• Epigenetic data, like genetic data, contains potentially identifiable information, necessitating controlled access.
• Secure sharing of valuable epigenomic datasets is essential but challenging due to privacy concerns.

Approach:

• Developed the EpiVar Browser, guided by the GA4GH Framework for responsible data sharing.
• The tool allows exploration of aggregate epigenomics dataset results, filtering out identifiable information.
• Enables dynamic genotype-epigenome interrogation by aggregating individual genotype data.

Key Points:

• EpiVar Browser facilitates exploration of genotype-chromatin phenotype relationships.
• No identifiable individual genotype data is released, ensuring data privacy.
• Accelerates analyses by bypassing lengthy multi-step approval processes.

Conclusions:

• The EpiVar Browser provides a generalizable strategy for responsible access to sensitive epigenomics data.
• Facilitates secure sharing and analysis of valuable epigenomic datasets.
• Empowers researchers to interrogate genotype-epigenome interactions efficiently and securely.