MutRank

"MutRank" is an R Shiny web application that streamlines and enhances coexpression analyses, particularly for linking genotypes to phenotypes in plant biology. This tool addresses the complexities of identifying genes involved in biosynthetic pathways for specialized plant metabolites—a task traditionally challenged by the dispersed nature of biosynthetic pathway genes across chromosomes or within gene clusters of limited predictive value.

Core Features:

- Coexpression Analysis: This method utilizes mutual rank (MR)--based coexpression analysis to identify highly coexpressed transcripts, significantly narrowing down the candidate genes for pathway enzymes and facilitating the predicting of their functions and associations.

- Customizable User Interface: Offers an intuitive graphical user interface that allows for the customization of the coexpression analysis. This feature is handy for researchers aiming to refine hypothesis testing according to specific research needs.

- Integration of User-Provided Data: MutRank is designed to work seamlessly with user-provided data, along with supporting information, making it adaptable to various research contexts and questions in plant biology.

- Rapid Analysis Outputs: Generates tabular and graphical outputs that expedite the analysis of unbiased and user-defined coexpression results, aiding in the swift prediction of gene functions.

- Utility in Biosynthetic Pathway Discovery: Demonstrated effectiveness in identifying and defining biosynthetic pathways, as illustrated by its recent application in uncovering maize terpenoid antibiotic pathways.

- Broad Applicability: While its utility in biosynthetic pathway discovery is highlighted, MutRank's capabilities extend to a wide range of inquiries within plant biology, offering a versatile tool for researchers in the field.