MODE: The Multi-omics Data Exploration Platform

In the biological and environmental sciences, data are being generated at an unprecedented rate. There are many scientific discoveries pertinent to DOE missions that are waiting to happen from high-throughput biological data, if only it could be efficiently and effectively managed and explored. The size and complexity of the data are the main factors that pose challenges to effective exploration, with solutions either being rigid or throwing out a lot of precious information in order to simplify, or requiring researchers to become experts in programming methods and data processing techniques, slowing down efficiency of discovery. Partnering with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Multi-omics Data Exploration Platform (MODE) will be built and integrated with the PNNL’s MyEMSL platform, which houses large collections of biological data generated at PNNL. MODE will leverage technologies developed by the applicants to provide MyEMSL with a platform for data fusion, and exploration, allowing researchers to easily take data directly from the instrument and assess data quality, determine relationships among variables, investigate hypotheses, and integrate disparate data types. In Phase I, the MODE team will develop a prototype system that will demonstrate the value of the approach that is ready for Phase II hardening, generalization, and productization. Datasets will be identified that will serve as case studies. Methods for ingesting, formatting, and combining the datasets will be engineered, and a suite of interactive visualizations building off of existing MODE technology will be developed. MODE will have commercial applications within any institution that generates high-throughput biological data. This market, covering many universities, research institutions, and industrial research groups. With MODE filling a clear technological gap in the industry, it is anticipated that its successful commercialization will help lead to more scientific discoveries at a faster pace, and will help ensure that discoveries are valid.