DRfit: a Java tool for the analysis of discrete data from multi-well plate assays

Abstract Background Analyses of replicates in sets of discrete data, typically acquired in multi-well plate formats, is a recurring task in many contemporary areas in the Life Sciences. The availability of accessible cross-platform data analysis tools for such fundamental tasks in varied projects an...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Andreas Hofmann, Sarah Preston, Megan Cross, H. M. P. Dilrukshi Herath, Anne Simon, Robin B. Gasser
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2019-05-01
Series:BMC Bioinformatics
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12859-019-2891-5
Description
Summary:Abstract Background Analyses of replicates in sets of discrete data, typically acquired in multi-well plate formats, is a recurring task in many contemporary areas in the Life Sciences. The availability of accessible cross-platform data analysis tools for such fundamental tasks in varied projects and environments is an important prerequisite to ensuring a reliable and timely turnaround as well as to provide practical analytical tools for student training. Results We have developed an easy-to-use, interactive software tool for the analysis of multiple data sets comprising replicates of discrete bivariate data points. For each dataset, the software identifies the replicate data points from a defined matrix layout and calculates their means and standard errors. The averaged values are then automatically fitted using either a linear or a logistic dose response function. Conclusions DRfit is a practical and convenient tool for the analysis of one or multiple sets of discrete data points acquired as replicates from multi-well plate assays. The design of the graphical user interface and the built-in analysis features make it a flexible and useful tool for a wide range of different assays.
ISSN:1471-2105