Speaker
Description
The sharing of viral genomic data is critical for scientific research and public health responses. While platforms like the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration (INSDC: NCBI, ENA, DDBOJ) and GISAID facilitate data sharing, challenges remain in meeting the specific needs of the pathogen genomics community. Persistent concerns about data misuse, “scooping,” and limitations on data reuse from protected repositories highlight the need for more flexible and equitable data-sharing solutions.
Pathoplexus is a specialized, community-driven viral genomics database designed to balance data utility with autonomy. It combines open-source technology with transparent governance, allowing data submitters to control how their data is used for up to one year if desired, while also promoting rapid access for researchers and public health officials. All Pathoplexus submissions are automatically uploaded to INSDC: either immediately if fully open or after one year if initially shared as “restricted-use.” Features like SeqSets, which provide citable DOIs to contributors, ensure submitters receive appropriate credit while supporting open, flexible data-sharing terms.
Powered by Loculus, an open-source tool for managing viral sequence databases, Pathoplexus can be replicated by labs or organizations to set up their own databases. The platform’s web interface and API ensure accessibility for both interactive and programmable analyses. Pathoplexus is a non-profit association governed by an international Executive Board and includes members from 10 countries across 5 continents, reflecting a commitment to equity and diverse public health needs.
In the future, Pathoplexus aims to expand to support raw read data, enhancing viral evolution insights, and implement a federated network of nodes to foster decentralized sequence sharing. This will empower regions to maintain data ownership while contributing to a resilient, global system.
In this talk, we introduce Pathoplexus and highlight its potential to enhance data sharing through collaboration and transparency for long-term public health impact.
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