Understanding:
• Databases allow scientists easy access to information
• The body of data stored in databases is increasing exponentially
Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field that uses computer science to sort, store and understand biological data
- This information is stored in databases, which use algorithms to collate relevant data for interpretation and analysis
The body of available data stored in databases is increasing exponentially as a result of:
- Advancements in sequencing protocols (promotes faster data collection)
- Development of new software tools (results in easier access to data – which promotes collaboration)
- A rapid increase in the number of labs undertaking associated research
Examples of databases used to collect and collect relevant biological information include:
- Genbank – Genetic sequence database
- RCSB – Protein database
- EBI – Molecular biology database (genes, proteins and chemicals)
Application:
• Explore chromosome 21 in databases (for example in Ensembl)
Chromosome 21 is the smallest human chromosome, with roughly 48 million base pairs
- It was the second chromosome to be completely sequenced as part of the Human Genome Project
- Chromosome 21 is predicted to contain roughly 400 – 600 genes (number varies according to predictive measure used)
Information regarding the structure and approximate sequence of chromosome 21 is stored in bioinformatic databases
- This information is commonly conveyed as an ideogram (a graphical representation of chromosomal content)
Chromosome 21 can be explored in a number of different databases, including NCBI and Ensembl
Ideogram of Chromosome 21
