Major Expansion of QGene, a Popular Genomic Software Package

Kansas State University, Manhattan KS

Investigators

Abstract

QGene is a popular, free software package for exploration and analysis of quantitative genetic (QTL, or quantitative trait locus) mapping data. It is unique among such packages in offering a richly graphical, interactive user interface and fast exploratory analysis with large datasets from a dozen mating designs. It sets a standard in a genre where human-interface design is often neglected. Converting the software to the C++ language while brining it to the state-of-the-science in statistical analysis algorithms and porting it to the Windows operating system will make the package more accessible. In addition, using a modular architecture will give it the power to share data and functionality with other packages and to communicate with various genome databases. Overall, the mapping community will have much more complete QTL software power than now available.