Pan Omics and Data Science Core

ABSTRACT (Pan Omics and Data Science Core) The use of multi-omics techniques, including single-cell omics, in environmental health sciences (EHS) research continues to grow rapidly, and the use of advanced machine learning and statistical learning techniques to make translational predictions with these data is becoming ever more essential. As such, staying on the cutting edge with these tasks can be overwhelming. The objective of the Pan Omics and Data Science (PODS) Core is to provide comprehensive and innovative support to investigators in the Michigan Center on Lifestage Environmental Exposures and Disease (M-LEEaD) for the study design, sample preparation, analysis, interpretation, and integration of a broad range of omics-based studies, and to educate them on available opportunities. The PODS Core streamlines the entire process of an omics study, allowing M- LEEaD investigators to dedicate more of their own resources to answering difficult environmental health science questions. Lifestage-specific exposures may have detrimental effects on human health via any of several mechanisms, including epigenetic, genetic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metagenomic, metabolomic, and adductomic. Thus, in the new funding period the PODS Core aims to broaden its reach both in terms of the omics technologies supported, and the statistical and data science methods used. We will achieve this through building a close-knit community of UM experts in these areas and interest/experience in EHS. The PODS Core objective will be accomplished through four specific aims. First, we will provide M-LEEaD investigators expertise in the study design and implementation of a broad range of molecular studies, including technology platform choice, sample collection and preparation, and engagement with key UM resources. Second, we will provide bioinformatics analysis and data science services for a broad range of omics approaches and integrative analyses. Third, the PODS Core will support the community through development of novel bioinformatics methods and tools and protocols for novel technologies staying apace with technological advancements. Finally, the PODS Core educates M-LEEaD Center faculty, staff, and students on omics assays and data science relevant to EHS research, and promotes partnerships between environmental scientists and data scientists. M-LEEaD investigators benefit from several free services and collaborative events offered by PODS, which enables and strengthens Fundamental Questions and also Application and Synthesis in the NIEHS Translational Research Framework.