The MetNet database (MetNetDB) contains information on networks of regulatory and metabolic interactions in Arabidopsis. This information is based on input from biologists in their area of expertise. In addition to the MetNet-curated interactions, we provide AraCyc-curated pathways, and in the near future (expected May 2005) will include BioPathAt- and MapMan-curated pathways. MetNetDB is now in construction.

Types of interactions in MetNetDB include transcription, translation, protein modification, assembly, allosteric regulation, translocation from one subcellular compartment to another. Other fields describing the interactions are subcellular location, confidence, directionality, references, evidence, and synonyms. Data on entities (DNA, RNA, polypeptides, protein complexes, metabolites) are derived from web databases (TAIR, KEGG, BRENDA), in some cases with additional annotation by experts.

Network information from MetNetDB can be converted to an XML file. From this XML file, it can be transferred to GeneGobi, which uses the network in conjunction with statistical analysis of expression data; to FCModeler, which finds cycles and pathways in the network, and visualizes and models it in combination with expression data; and to MetNetVR, where the network can be visualized in 3D. "Mapbuilder" automatically builds new network XML files from the most current data in MetNetDB.

For curators, we have provided a JAVA interface (Java 1.4 or later) to the MetNet database (see "Curator Tool").