Bioinformatics Visualization and Integration

Andrei L. Turinsky, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Andrew Ah-Seng, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Paul Gordon, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Julie N. Stromer, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Morgan L. Taschuk, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Emily W. Xu, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, and Christoph Sensen, University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine

10/02/2008
(Original Publish Date: 11/27/2004)

We have created a new JavaTM-based integrated computational environment for the exploration of genomic data, called Bluejay. The system is capable of using almost any XML file related to genomic data. Non-XML data sources can be accessed via a proxy server. Bluejay has several features, which are new to Bioinformatics, including an unlimited semantic zoom capability, coupled with Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) outputs; an implementation of the XLink standard, which features access to MAGPIE Genecards as well as any BioMOBY service accessible over the Internet; and the integration of gene chip analysis tools with the functional assignments. The system can be used as a signed web applet, Web Start, and a local stand-alone application, with or without connection to the Internet. It is available free of charge and as open source via http://bluejay.ucalgary.ca.