A Computer Database for DNA Sequences from Onchocerca volvulus
and Other Filaria.
Some readers of the newsletter may already be familiar with the DNA sequence
database that Dr. Tom Unnasch has been putting together at the University
of Alabama at Birmingham. For those who are not, this is to introduce you
to what Tom has established and how it may be used.
All published sequence information and much unpublished data fromOnchocerca
volvulus (and related filariae) has been compiled on computer by Tom.
The purpose of the database is to provide a quick and convenient source
of information on the latest progress in the cloning of filarial genes.
Because it is regularly updated with unpublished data, Tom's library of
sequences is a better source of specialized information on the filarial
genome than the major databases most of us use. It does not operate as an
alternative to other databases that one would still use to reveal sequence
similarities with known genes from any branch of biology. Instead, it permits
an investigator to determine whether any other lab is working on the same
gene. If this is the case, Tom will act as an honest broker notifying the
parties so that they can work out whether to collaborate or not.
The usefulness of the database to the filarial worm community is likely
to grow rapidly with time. The C. elegans field stands as an example
of how powerful it can be to organize lines of communication in this way.
Success of the database will be governed very largely by the willingness
of cloners to send Tom their latest, unpublished sequences. To ensure confidentiality,
Tom does not disclose unpublished data to any third-party. Thus, it is in
the hands of individual investigators to determine how and when they wish
to communicate information to other members of the field.
Members of my lab who have sent in sequences find that the system works
excellently and is a valuable service. I personally would like to thank
Tom for taking on this role and for this efforts on our behalf.
For those investigators wishing to submit sequences, Tom would prefer an
IBM readable (ASCII) file on either a 5 1/4 or 3 1/2 high density floppy.
Any documentation or numbering should be omitted from the file. In addition,
sequences can also be entered directly from a hard copy, but this is more
time consuming.
For more information, or for the submission of sequences, Tom may be contacted
at....
Telephone: (205)934-1630 FAX: (205)933-5671
Address: Dr. Thomas Unnasch
Division of Geographic Medicine, PAB 240
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL 35294
Ted Blanco