Using big data technology in analysing cures for cancer
Technology is the future and as we sit or stand here today we already know of its great importance and how we depend upon it; the running of technology in our daily life and the operation of it in the world we live in.
But, have you stopped and wondered how big data in technology could cure things like cancer?
Well, today we bring to you an analysis of an app that was developed by Cancer Research UK to gain research around genetic cancer data that could help beat cancer sooner.
Genes In Space
You may or may not have heard of it but Genes in Space is the app that was developed by CRUK. This app uses the collective force of players to gather real genetic data and this is analysed further, in actual fact it is the world’s first app that is free and able to do this.
The game itself is very creative and full of missions. You must collect a substance dubbed Element Alpha that is fictional and this is what represents the genetic data for cancer and could underpin certain types of cancer. As you collect these valuable substances you can rise through the ranks in a number of ways. One way being to map your own route through dense areas of Element Alpha and the other way is to fly through space collecting as many Element Alpha as you can whilst destroying asteroids that lands in your way. If you avoid or shoot down an asteroid you can get to the next level. You can even upgrade your ship along the way and become more powerful; the more power the more points.
You may just think that this is just a game but a lot of thought and science has been put into the making and development of this. CRUK worked with real scientists and gaming experts to make this all happen. Here is an example of how in the game the data is translated. In the game, you travel on the spaceship to pick up “Element Alpha’s” what this means for the scientists is they are able to analyse the data pattern of your travel – spotting the patterns in gigabytes of genetic information from thousands of tumours. Code and games can all assist in translating microdata about genetics and this is important research behind the cure for cancer.
Lessons to be learnt
If you happen to be a small business for example, looking for a breakthrough of new ideas for success then why not learn from non-profit organisations such as Cancer Research. A mobile app has enabled them to branch off their research to a greater level and a mobile app can help boost a small business – but how exactly you might be wondering?
Mobile apps for small businesses increase engagement just as it does for the non-profits. It makes marketing to a larger audience far more effective and increases social shares and awareness through word of mouth so that more people hear about your brand. In addition, a mobile app resource makes the business far more efficient. Say you are a small business in the hospitality industry, a booking that can be accessible at the fingertips to consumers will translate into an immediate sale; customers interact automatically if they like what they see, read or experience.
For Cancer Research, data translation is at the people’s fingertips through experience and this data is contributing to beating cancer in the future.
If you would like to be involved in charitable giving to Cancer Research feel free to visit the Cancer Research donate page and if you would like to contribute to data research download the Genes in Space app today and let the scientists do the rest of the crucial work behind the scenes.
