EST Express: PHP/MySQL based automated annotation of ESTs from expression libraries

Background: Several biological techniques result in the acquisition of functional sets of cDNAs that must be sequenced and analyzed. The emergence of redundant databases such as UniGene and centralized annotation engines such as Entrez Gene has allowed the development of software that can analyze a great number of sequences in a matter of seconds. Results: We have developed "EST Express", a suite of analytical tools that identify and annotate ESTs originating from specific mRNA populations. The software consists of a user-friendly GUI powered by PHP and MySQL that allows for online collaboration between researchers and continuity with UniGene, Entrez Gene and RefSeq. Two key features of the software include a novel, simplified Entrez Gene parser and tools to manage cDNA library sequencing projects. We have tested the software on a large data set (2,016 samples) produced by subtractive hybridization. Conclusion: EST Express is an open-source, cross-platform web server applica...

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2008
• Where: BMCBI
• Authors: Robin P. Smith, William J. Buchser, Marcus B. Lemmon, Jose R. Pardinas, John L. Bixby, Vance P. Lemmon
• Keywords: BMCBI 2008, Entrez Gene, EST Express, Subtractive Hybridization