Next generation tools for genomic data generation, distribution, and visualization.
BACKGROUND
With the rapidly falling cost and availability of high throughput sequencing and microarray technologies, the bottleneck for effectively using genomic analysis in the laboratory and clinic is shifting to one of effectively managing, analyzing, and sharing genomic data.


RESULTS
Here we present three open-source, platform independent, software tools for generating, analyzing, distributing, and visualizing genomic data. These include a next generation sequencing/microarray LIMS and analysis project center (GNomEx); an application for annotating and programmatically distributing genomic data using the community vetted DAS/2 data exchange protocol (GenoPub); and a standalone Java Swing application (GWrap) that makes cutting edge command line analysis tools available to those who prefer graphical user interfaces. Both GNomEx and GenoPub use the rich client Flex/Flash web browser interface to interact with Java classes and a relational database on a remote server. Both employ a public-private user-group security model enabling controlled distribution of patient and unpublished data alongside public resources. As such, they function as genomic data repositories that can be accessed manually or programmatically through DAS/2-enabled client applications such as the Integrated Genome Browser.


CONCLUSIONS
These tools have gained wide use in our core facilities, research laboratories and clinics and are freely available for non-profit use. See http://sourceforge.net/projects/gnomex/, http://sourceforge.net/projects/genoviz/, and http://sourceforge.net/projects/useq.
Nix
David A
DA
Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, USA. david.nix@hci.utah.edu
Di Sera
Tonya L
TL
Dalley
Brian K
BK
Milash
Brett A
BA
Cundick
Robert M
RM
Quinn
Kevin S
KS
Courdy
Samir J
SJ
D003196:Computer Graphics; D016208:Databases, Factual; D016678:Genome; D023281:Genomics / Q000379:methods*; D020407:Internet; D012984:Software; D014584:User-Computer Interface