Cloud computing applied to big data processing in genomics

Shenzhen (CNS) -- EasyGenomics, a cloud computing product especially designed for big data processing in genomic studies, was put into operation in the Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI) based in Shenzhen, Tuesday.

Its cloud storage capacity and high-performance computing techniques allow EasyGenomics to do low cost analyses and efficient processing of large quantities of data. The product's data transmission speed over all sorts of public and private networks is 10 to 100 times that of normal methods.

Studies on data processing are giving rise to a significant revolution in modern life sciences. "Big data," as a newly emerging hot topic in academia, is being compared to the new oil or the new currency. Obama announced his "big data" plan on March 29, which has annual funding of US$ 200 million.

BGI, the world's largest genomics institute, has established a variety of technology platforms for research and practice in genomic sequencing, biological information, cloning, and agricultural genomes.

Three national supercomputing centers based in Tianjin, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou are joining BGI in the development and application of genomics technologies.