AN ONLINE DATABASE FOR ZEBRAFISH DEVELOPMENT AND GENETICS RESEARCH

We have built a relational database of zebrafish developmental and gen etic research information accessible via the World Wide Web. Our team of biologists and computer scientists employed a user-centered design process using input from the research community to tailor the contents and usability of the database. The database supports the broad range of data types generated by zebrafish research including text, images a nd graphical information about mutations, gene expression patterns and the genetic map. Data are entered both by the database staff and dire ctly by authorized users. The database also maintains links among data , scientists and laboratories, thus facilitating information exchange within the research community. (C) 1997 Academic Press Ltd.