Abstract: A computer-based system and method are provided for retrieving information from a number of data sources on a computer network containing biological data. The network database is organized in a b-tree configuration having a plurality of sample nodes. Each sample node includes a curated data set of pre-formatted and pre-computed summary biological data obtained from at least one biological sample. The plurality of sample nodes are organized in a hierarchical arrangement according to clinical relevance. A set of attributes is assigned to each sample node to facilitate navigation through the database using a browser accessible through a graphical user interface. The set of attributes including at least one taxonomy designation selected from the group including tissues, diseases, medications and sample parameters. Search results that are produced include automated reports of the summary biological data stored in the sample nodes and custom reports generated using the summary biological data.

Abstract: In a computer system for analysis of gene expression data, a gene expression database is organized in a hierarchical b-tree according to the descriptive and clinical sample attributes stored in the database. A user submits a query for searching the database and defines attributes on which to filter for each level of the b-tree. A simple search can be employed to arbitrarily group together leaf nodes depending on their attributes. The grouped leaf nodes are used as “control” and “experimental” sample sets. A t-test can be performed to test for statistically significant regulation between the control and experimental sample sets. In one embodiment, the results of the b-tree analysis are organized as a table of information which may be part of a relational database. The data in the database are encoded according to a three-state scheme based on regulation behavior.