LAUSR

Background Pathway analysis is widely used in omics studies. Pathway-based data integration and visualization is a critical component of the analysis. To address this need, we recently developed a novel R package called Pathview. Pathview maps, integrates and renders a large variety of biological data onto molecular pathway graphs. Pathview quickly became a leading tool in pathway visualization, and has been widely adopted by tens of thousands of scientists and dozens of dependent applications worldwide. Methods Here we developed the Pathview Web server, as to make pathway visualization and data integration accessible to all scientists, including those without the special computing skills or resources. Pathview Web features an intuitive graphical web interface and a user centered design. We also provide a comprehensive online help system and multiple quick-start example analyses. Even with no special computing training and resources, users may still accomplish pathway based data visualization and integration independently. Results The server not only expands the core functions of Pathview, but also provides many useful features not available in the offline R package: 1) The results graphs are interactive and hyperlinked to abundant external annotation data online; 2) The server provides the latest, most complete and accurate pathway definitions and graphs by regular synchronization with KEGG source databases; 3) Users can review, replicate and share their analyses easily with free registered user accounts, which enable collaborative research and reproducible science; 4) Useful user engagement features allow users make comments and suggestions, or ask for help in designated pages. Importantly, the server presents a comprehensive workflow for both regular and integrated pathway analysis of multiple omics data. In addition, the server also provides a RESTful API for programmatic access and conveniently integration in third-party software or workflows. Discussion Pathview Web is openly and freely accessible at https://pathview.uncc.edu/ .