Data Integration Approaches for Representing Stem Cell Studies.

The aim of this study was to examine existing methods for sharing results of stem cell research via online data repositories. To identify the relevant repositories, a PubMed search was conducted using standard MeSH terms which was followed by a web-based search of relevant databases. The search yielded 16 databases created between 2010 and 2019. The review of databases identified 35 major rubrics and their sub-rubrics organized in a five-module system. Data integration approaches were characterized by three domains (common data elements, data visualization and analysis tools, and ontology mapping) which varied widely across the databases. Current state of stem cell data integration lacks reproducibility and standardization. Standardization of data integration approaches for representing stem cell studies is necessary to facilitate data sharing.