The goal of this proposal is to produce an analytical database system for Geneticists to facilitate the task of collecting, organizing, maintaining data specific to this field. There are many desparate programs for the analysis of genetic data, but most require computing and genetic analysis expertise for their use, and all require the geneticist to direct the analysis strategy appropriately. Each program has different data requirements. To facilitate genetic research we have devised special utilities in the GENISYS database management system of storing and retrieving familial data. In this proposal we will interface this software with analysis programs to allow pedigree manipulation and analysis functions to be called directly from the database system. We will also interface an expert system to the database system so that the system can use predetermined strategies to guide the collection and analysis of data. The integration of a database management system with genetic utilities, an expert system, and analytical programs will create a new tool of wide applicability. These capabilities will be of considerable interest in institutions focused on molecular genetics, clinical genetics, and/or genetic analysis. It will have broader application as these technologies become standard diagnostic and predictive procedures in hospitals, HMOs, and physician's offices.
| Prokosch, H U; Seuchter, S A; Thompson, E A et al. (1989) Applying expert system techniques to human genetics. Comput Biomed Res 22:234-47 |
