Genomic Information Retrieval

Williams, H.E.

The in-silico revolution has changed how biologists characterise DNA and protein sequences. AS a first step to exploring the structure and function of an unknown sequence, biologists search large genomic databases for similar sequences. This process of genomic information retrieval has allowed significant advances in biology and led to advancements in critical areas such as cancer research. In this paper, we present a background to genomic information retrieval by describing the problems, collections, and techniques used by biologists for searching large collections. In particular, we identify the problems inherent in the popular search techniques, and discuss how index-based approaches may be applied to solve these problems. We conclude by offering the challenge that information retrieval specialists must continue to make significant contributions to allow further advances in molecular biology research.

Cite as: Williams, H.E. (2003). Genomic Information Retrieval. In Proc. Fourteenth Australasian Database Conference (ADC2003), Adelaide, Australia. CRPIT, 17. Schewe, K.-D. and Zhou, X., Eds. ACS. 27-35.

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