Specific goal: Public, web-accessible crop information system for ICRISAT's mandated species

Outputs:

1. An integrated crop information system linking molecular, phenotypic and pedigree data
2. Supporting systems to provide quality assurance from laboratory operations

ICRISAT and its partners have generated extensive information on the genetic resources of its mandated crops. Recent and emerging developments in modern science, especially molecular genomics, have led to the generation of large datasets of genotypic and phenotypic information. In addition, enormous quantities of data already exist in databases and files generated by researchers for their own use. To be of optimal use by all scientists working on these crops and other crops specific to the semi-arid tropics, all this data must be collated and made accessible. Therefore, a major focus of the bioinformatics efforts will be to develop an information management system that provides the required entry, query and access interfaces to meet the demands of ICRISAT globally.

Currently, a workflow laboratory information management system (LIMS) is available that manages sample tracking of DNA through the genotyping process. The genotyping data from this system flows into a database (ICRIS) that has user interfaces for retrieving and generating simple reports from the genotypic data. Future efforts will focus on enhancing the existing LIMS and ICRIS systems with additional functionality and user interfaces. By 2010, it is projected that this system will be in place and functioning in ICRISAT's global locations. 

For further information, contact Dr Jayashree Balaji.