Fix the unit of analysis
Distinguish person, sample, tumour and collection time. Multiple samples from one person are not independent observations equivalent to different people. Define population, selection criteria and variables before comparing alterations or outcomes.
Record versions and processing
The Genomic Data Commons documents processing and reference files. Record data versions, genome assembly, tools, parameters and filters. Changes in references or annotation can alter results even when files appear to represent the same experiment.
Preserve a verifiable workflow
Organise code, variable dictionaries and cleaning steps with version identifiers. Validate transformations and describe missing data. Portal, annotation and enrichment tools support hypothesis exploration, but computational repeatability does not demonstrate causality or clinical usefulness.
Interpretation limits
Technical reproduction and biological validation are different checks.
Controlled-access data must not be copied or published without the relevant authorisation.
Original references
Continue exploring
Cancer atlas
Research questions
Select tools by method, population and purpose. A thematic connection does not validate use in every case.
Educational content for framing research. Consult the original document, study population and methodology before interpreting a conclusion. Methodology