Flexible web-based integration of distributed large-scale human protein interaction maps

Protein-protein interactions constitute the backbone of many molecular processes. This has motivated the recent construction of several large-scale human protein-protein interaction maps [1-10]. Although these maps clearly offer a wealth of information, their use is challenging: complexity, rapid growth, and fragmentation of interaction data hamper their usability. To overcome these hurdles, we have developed a publicly accessible database termed UniHI (Unified Human Interactome) for integration of human protein-protein interaction data. This database is designed to provide biomedical researchers a common platform for exploring previously disconnected human interaction maps. UniHI offers researchers flexible integrated tools for accessing comprehensive information about the human interactome. Several features included in the UniHI allow users to perform various types of network-oriented and functional analysis. At present, UniHI contains over 160,000 distinct interactions between 17,000 unique proteins from ten major interaction maps derived by both computational and experimental approaches [1-10]. Here we describe the details of the implementation and maintenance of UniHI and discuss the challenges that have to be addressed for a successful integration of interaction data

Inferring modules from human protein interactome classes

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The integration of protein-protein interaction networks derived from high-throughput screening approaches and complementary sources is a key topic in systems biology. Although integration of protein interaction data is conventionally performed, the effects of this procedure on the result of network analyses has not been examined yet. In particular, in order to optimize the fusion of heterogeneous interaction datasets, it is crucial to consider not only their degree of coverage and accuracy, but also their mutual dependencies and additional salient features.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>We examined this issue based on the analysis of modules detected by network clustering methods applied to both integrated and individual (disaggregated) data sources, which we call interactome classes. Due to class diversity, we deal with variable dependencies of data features arising from structural specificities and biases, but also from possible overlaps. Since highly connected regions of the human interactome may point to potential protein complexes, we have focused on the concept of modularity, and elucidated the detection power of module extraction algorithms by independent validations based on GO, MIPS and KEGG. From the combination of protein interactions with gene expressions, a confidence scoring scheme has been proposed before proceeding via GO with further classification in permanent and transient modules.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Disaggregated interactomes are shown to be informative for inferring modularity, thus contributing to perform an effective integrative analysis. Validation of the extracted modules by multiple annotation allows for the assessment of confidence measures assigned to the modules in a protein pathway context. Notably, the proposed multilayer confidence scheme can be used for network calibration by enabling a transition from unweighted to weighted interactomes based on biological evidence.</p

Flexible web-based integration of distributed large-scale human protein interaction maps

Protein-protein interactions constitute the backbone of many molecular processes. This has motivated the recent construction of several large-scale human protein-protein interaction maps [1-10]. Although these maps clearly offer a wealth of information, their use is challenging: complexity, rapid growth, and fragmentation of interaction data hamper their usability. To overcome these hurdles, we have developed a publicly accessible database termed UniHI (Unified Human Interactome) for integration of human protein-protein interaction data. This database is designed to provide biomedical researchers a common platform for exploring previously disconnected human interaction maps. UniHI offers researchers flexible integrated tools for accessing comprehensive information about the human interactome. Several features included in the UniHI allow users to perform various types of network-oriented and functional analysis. At present, UniHI contains over 160,000 distinct interactions between 17,000 unique proteins from ten major interaction maps derived by both computational and experimental approaches [1-10]. Here we describe the details of the implementation and maintenance of UniHI and discuss the challenges that have to be addressed for a successful integration of interaction data