Gene characterization index: assessing the depth of gene annotation.

摘要: Background We introduce the Gene Characterization Index, a bioinformatics method for scoring extent to which protein-encoding gene is functionally described. Inherently reflection of human perception, Index applied assessing characterization status individual genes, thus serving advancement both genome annotation and genomics research by rapid unbiased identification groups uncharacterized genes diverse applications such as directed functional studies delineation novel drug targets. Methodology/Principal Findings The procedure based on global survey researchers, who assigned scores from 1 (poor) 10 (extensive) sample major online resources. By evaluating training data, we developed assign all in genome. We analyzed snapshots over period 6 years assess temporal changes reflected increase average Index. Applying within pharmaceutically relevant classes, confirmed known targets high-scoring revealed potentially interesting with low indexes. Removing linked sequence-related patent filings entirety indexed identified sets low-scoring particularly suited further experimental investigation. Conclusions/Significance intended serve tool scientific community granting agencies focusing resources efforts unexplored areas The available http://cisreg.ca/gci/.