Algorithms and software for the analysis of transcription regulating sequences have proliferated. Methods based on phylogenetic footprinting, combinatorial interactions between transcription factors and genomics data appear regularly. In order to advance this active field, it is critical to gain unrestricted access to a broad range of reference data. Such a collection would be useful both for the measurement of software performance and, most importantly, as fertile ground for investigation. Small collections appear periodically in independent databases, often as by-products of algorithm development projects. For instance, the JASPAR database of binding profiles emerged in this manner. We have created a software framework for the construction and maintenance of such collections; a framework which allows multiple boutique databases to function within a larger system (or information mall). The PAZAR system features a highly flexible schema, two curation interfaces, an advanced API for information access, and an XML exchange format.

Project Members:

Team e-mail: pazar@cmmt.ubc.ca