Frequently Asked Questions: caArray
What is caArray?
caArray is an open-source, Web-based array data management system that allows researchers to annotate and exchange array data among biomedical institutions. As a caBIG™-compatible application, caArray is connected to the global infrastructure of caGrid but allows for local management and control of array data. As a grid data service, caArray furthers translational cancer research through the acquisition, dissemination, and management of array data in order to support subsequent analysis by tools and services both on and off caGrid.
How does caArray make research more efficient?
Researchers can use this application to more efficiently retrieve, manage, analyze, and share not only their own microarray data, but also microarray data from other contributing institutions. The latest release of caArray, version 2.0, provides researchers with increased data control and better mimics the natural workflow between investigators and the array labs that serve them.
The annotation and real-time exchange capabilities of caArray are what enable collaborative research and data-sharing among caBIG™-interoperable institutions. Ultimately, caArray has been designed to improve the microarray data management process from experiment to analysis.
Specifically, caArray version 2.0 allows the user to:
- Browse the data repository for experiments of interest;
- Submit and access array data and annotations based on a role-based workflow to support collaboration across the research continuum;
- Upload, validate, and import single data files or a set of zipped files; and
- Control the public visibility of an experiment.
Who are the target users for caArray?
caArray is a resource for biomedical researchers, including:
- Bench scientists performing microarray data collection and annotation;
- Microarray core facility scientists and technicians;
- Bioinformatics and data management coordinators; and
- Multi-institutional data coordination center informaticists.
Who are the key contributors?
The key developers for caArray include The National Cancer Institute Center for Bioinformatics (NCICB), 5AM Solutions, NARTech, Science Applications Internal Corporation, and TerpSys. Early adopters of caArray 2.0 include Columbia University, The Jackson Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and Washington University.
Which other caBIG™–supported applications are related to caArray?
caArray is part of the Life Sciences Distribution, a group of applications designed to enable researchers to more easily integrate, analyze, and share data from different sources. caArray uses caGrid to provide access to data across a federated system of installations.
Additional Resources:
