MuStaR and other software for locus-specific mutation databases.

As the human genome sequencing project nears completion, there has been a vast increase in the rate at which disease and nondisease associated variant sequences are being sought and detected. This has heightened the need for software with which to accumulate allelic variant (mutation) data, and with which to make the data accessible to the scientific community. Many ad hoc solutions have been developed by those interested in specific genes and diseases, and the creation of central databases which hold data for all genes has provided an alternative repository for some of the locus data. Despite this, few specialised software tools exist for researchers to create their own locus-specific allelic variant databases. This article describes methods available to potential curators, including software systems developed with the sole purpose of generating locus-specific mutation databases. In particular, the authors' own software, MuStaRtrade mark, is described. MuStaRtrade mark allows curators to maintain a database on a laptop computer if desired, while being able to export the data to an automatically generated Website which will run on any cgi compliant Web server. Searching the database and the submission of new mutations are made possible through fill-in Web forms. A number of other software tools which may be of use to curators are also described.

LAMS(TM)--a laboratory animal management system.

The LAMStrade mark database stores data on a colony of breeding animals. Forms are hierarchial and show details of internal codes, matings, litters, and offspring. The identifier given to each animal can be subdivided as such. Each form shows an abbreviated list of the related data from the form one level down, and some special fields, when double-clicked, cause the related record to be displayed. The print button allows the user to print the current record and its related records. Other buttons on each form allow the user to amend, delete, find, and add records within certain rules. User-defined lists are created to allow the selection of various characteristics during data entry. The offspring form contains a section where the user can define the label of a comment and/or a text field. This name is then always subsequently available as an option in a list of user-defined labels. Reports are available for tailtipping dates (if applicable) and calculation of genetic ratios. A queryform allows the user to filter the records in the offspring form to the criteria specified, and a display of the actual query submitted is shown. An integrated HELP is available. The LAMStrade mark database is available at http://www.hgu.mrc.ac.uk/Softdata/Lams