Background

Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) uses the power of microarrays to detect and report the copy number variations (CNV) that are increasingly useful in diagnosis of genetically influenced conditions.

The growing power of microarrays permits finer resolution probes, and increasingly sensitive diagnostics, but also expands the burden of managing the large volume of resulting data.

Laboratories that perform aCGH are often sufficiently familiar with information management to devise or maintain their own databases, but usually prefer off-the-shelf systems built from reliable, non-proprietary components.

Researchers and their Information Systems colleagues at Children’s Mercy Hospital have developed, tested, and are currently taking advantage of a web-based user interface for CNV data.

The package is built on widely available open-source applications: Linux or Unix operating system; Apache web server; MySQL database; PHP scripting and control; and HTML presentation.

Installation in the lab should require only a few hours for individuals familiar with the open source components and customary system management techniques.

Installation and self-maintenance required (potentially with network of users)

File Number: 2010-003 

Other Information:

• Developed, tested, and in everyday laboratory use
• Available on standard CD
• Installation and self-maintenance required (potentially with network of users)