GeneBins: A database for classifying gene expression data, with application to plant genome arrays

Abstract

Background: To interpret microarray experiments, several ontological analysis tools have been developed. However, current tools are limited to specific organisms. Results: We developed a bioinformatics system to assign the probe set sequences of any organism to a hierarchical functional classification modelled on KEGG ontology. The GeneBins database currently supports the functional classification of expression data from four Affymetrix arrays; Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Glycine max and Medicago truncatula. An online analysis tool to identify relevant functions is also provided. Conclusion: GeneBins provides resources to interpret gene expression results from microarray experiments. It is available at http:// bioinfoserver.rsbs.anu.edu.au/utils/GeneBins/. © 2007 Goffard and Weiller; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.