DNAstack has introduced an online networking platform for information sharing about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the respiratory disease COVID-19.
The site enables the scientific and medical communities to share and discover knowledge in real-time about the genetics of the virus. Analysis of the viral genomes, combined with clinical and epidemiological data, can help track whether the virus is changing, determine how it is being transmitted, and potentially identify targets for diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines, according to the company.
Researchers can use the platform to discover sequences with specific genetic mutations and map their geographic and evolutionary origins. The platform integrates derivative data from genetic sequencing libraries such as the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) and links to pathogen evolution visualizations from the open-source project Nextstrain.
Those interested in making data available through this service or using it for analysis should contact DNAstack.