Data Exchange

Genomic Data Exchange (GenoEx-GDE)

Genomic evaluations require assembling significantly large reference populations from which both SNP and phenotypic data has to be available. This requirement has stimulated breeding organisations to exchange marker genotypes and share reference populations avoiding multiple genotyping of the same individuals. Bilateral exchanges may become inefficient and cumbersome if clear standards for data sharing are not established and multiple partners are involved.

For this reason, Interbull customers requested the establishment of a SNP data exchange platform to facilitate these exchanges. GenoEx-GDE also serves as genotype data collection for the Interbull’s international genomic evaluation service “InterGenomics”.

GenoEx-GDE enables robust genotype exchanges using whole SNP arrays from various genotyping chips, allowing users to specify how and with whom animal data is shared.

Each user has full access to their own genotypes and those obtained through the system, with the ability to choose which genotypes to share and with whom. Permissions can be customized for individual genotypes and updated at any time.

Quality control checks are performed during upload, including verification against Interbull’s Pedigree database and adherence to ICAR Guidelines for DNA quality. Users can filter for top-quality genotypes during downloads.

GenoEx-GDE is already used by organizations in Interbull’s international genomic evaluations (InterGenomics) and aims to provide a genotype-sharing platform for all Interbull Service users, regardless of their involvement in international genomic services.