Using data mining techniques for scientific data

Recent advances in microarray technology have enabled scientists to simultaneously gather data on thousands of genes. However, due to the complexity of genetic interactions, the functions of many genes remain unclear. The cause and progression of many diseases, like cancer and Alzheimer's, is increasingly being attributed to the deregulation of critical genetic pathways. Data mining is now being extensively used in biological datasets to infer gene function, and to identify genetic biomarkers for disease prognosis and treatment. There is a considerable need to design algorithms that explore and interpret the underlying microarray data from a biological perspective.