The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) is an authoritative and comprehensive online database that serves as a valuable resource for researchers in the field of bioinformatics and molecular biology. Developed by the Kanehisa Laboratories at Kyoto University in Japan, KEGG provides a highly organized and integrated compilation of information relating to genes, proteins, biochemical pathways, diseases, and drugs.
KEGG operates on the principle of linking genomic information, such as gene sequences and functions, with higher-level information regarding biological pathways and systems. It encompasses a wide range of organisms, including humans, plants, and microorganisms, making it a versatile tool for studying various biological processes.
The database within KEGG consists of numerous sections, each focused on a different aspect of molecular biology research. These sections include the KEGG PATHWAY, which presents well-annotated pathway diagrams; KEGG GENES, which provides information on individual genes and their functions; and KEGG DISEASE, which correlates genes and pathways with various diseases and their associated genetic alterations.
KEGG not only provides information on the genome and pathways but also offers visualization tools and analysis software to aid in data interpretation and integration. This makes KEGG an invaluable resource for researchers studying genetics, molecular biology, drug discovery, systems biology, and other related fields. It continues to be regularly updated, ensuring that researchers have access to the most current information available in the scientific community.
