Gene Construction Kit 3.0

Textco BioSoftware today released an enhanced beta version of Gene Construction Kit (GCK 3.0), its DNA plasmid mapping software. The update features new modules for PCR Analysis, Automated Shotgun Cloning, and integrated Web Searching for performing biological related queries across numerous internet data repositories -- including KEGG, EntrezGene, PDB, PFAM, and more. Users interested in trying out Gene Construction Kit must fill out a beta test form. The beta release requires Mac OS X 10.2 or later.

GCK is designed for planning and tracking complex construction projects, allowing users to manipulate actual DNA sequences through a unique graphical interface. The software displays data as either a text sequence or graphically, linear or circular. The software supports automatic monitoring and adjustment of DNA fragment ends during cutting as well as pasting, and features a unique Chronography option that tracks the history of any given DNA segment while maintaining alternative views.

Users can define thickness, pattern, shape, direction, and color for each DNA segment. The software includes search, download, and import of GenBank and EMBL files; all GenBank feature table items are translated automatically into GCK features.

GCK offers the ability to view predicted electrophoresis patterns of restriction digests -- including partial digests, show DNA with protein sequence and/or with restriction enzyme or other sites of interest, and create illustrations containing multiple constructs -- including gels, sequence listings, free text, legends, and other graphics.

by MacNN Staff