DbSNP

DbSNP (Database of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) is a public-domain archive for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and other classes of minor genetic variation, which includes insertions, deletions, and microsatellites. It is maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a division of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Overview

DbSNP was established to provide a central repository for both single nucleotide polymorphisms and other types of genetic variation. The database is designed to support a wide range of applications, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS), pharmacogenomics, and population genetics.

Data Content

The database contains information on:

• Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)
• Insertions and deletions (indels)
• Microsatellites (short tandem repeats)
• Complex variations

Each entry in DbSNP includes details such as the chromosomal location, the type of variation, the alleles involved, and the frequency of the variation in different populations. The database also provides links to related resources, such as GenBank, PubMed, and other NCBI databases.

Access and Tools

DbSNP can be accessed through the NCBI website, and users can search for specific variations using various criteria, such as the gene name, the chromosome number, or the specific SNP identifier (rsID). The database also offers tools for analyzing and visualizing genetic variation data, including:

• SNP search
• Batch query
• Variation Viewer

Applications

DbSNP is widely used in various fields of biomedical research. Some of the key applications include:

• Identifying genetic markers associated with diseases
• Studying the genetic basis of drug response in pharmacogenomics
• Investigating the genetic diversity within and between populations in population genetics
• Supporting the development of personalized medicine

Updates and Maintenance

The database is regularly updated to include new data from ongoing research and to correct any errors in existing entries. Researchers are encouraged to submit their findings to DbSNP to ensure that the database remains comprehensive and up-to-date.

See Also

• GenBank
• PubMed
• Genome-wide association study
• Pharmacogenomics
• Population genetics