Web-Based Interfaces for the GCG Sequence Analysis Programs

Abstract

The Genetics Computer Group (GCG) programs, also called the Wisconsin Package, comprise a powerful suite of tools for manipulating, analyzing, and comparing nucleotide and protein sequences. More than 130 programs are included in the Wisconsin Package, each of which functions as a tool for performing a specific task, such as translating a nucleotide-coding sequence or determining restriction enzyme cutting sites. The Wisconsin Package is commonly installed on a shared computer on a network. Traditionally, users login to the GCG server with a terminal program to operate the GCG programs. Recent efforts have resulted in development of Web-based interfaces for the Wisconsin Package, which allow the GCG programs to be run from Web browsers such as Netscape Communicator (see Note 6) or Internet Explorer (see Note 7). Because Web browsers are now ubiquitous and relatively easy to use, they offer a way to operate the GCG programs that will be familiar and comfortable to most people. GCG has recently introduced its version of a Webbased GCG interface called SeqWeb. SeqWeb is distributed separately from the Wisconsin Package as an add-on for an existing GCG installation (Note 3). Another Web-based interface for GCG is called BioPortal (Note 4), developed at the National University of Singapore. BioPortal is also an add-on for an existing GCG installation. Other Web-based interfaces for GCG are also in development, but are not addressed here.