DrosGB: An integrated multi-omics database for comparative genomics and functional annotation of 35 Drosophila species

Accurate identification of gene orthology is essential for understanding functional conservation and evolution. However, existing databases mainly focus on Drosophila melanogaster, with limited resource integration of other Drosophila species. To address this gap, we developed the Drosophila Genomics Browser (DrosGB, https://www.drosgb.com), a multi-omics database and analysis platform for the Drosophila genus. The platform is implemented using Python and the Django framework with a MySQL backend and an interactive web interface. DrosGB integrates genomic data, 876 transcriptome datasets, approximately 420,000 three-dimensional (3D) protein structures, and Gene Ontology annotations across 35 Drosophila species. To improve orthology inference, the platform integrates results from four approaches—OrthoFinder, SonicParanoid, Foldseek, and TOGA—to construct a high-confidence ortholog set. Analysis of this dataset revealed 6889 core genes shared by all 35 species, mainly involved in basal metabolism and intracellular transport, as well as 200 D. melanogaster–specific genes enriched in sperm motility and flagellar function. Based on data integration and orthology analysis, DrosGB provides eight functional modules for data exploration and comparative research, including gene ID search, rapid ortholog ID mapping, BLAST alignment, gene tree construction, sequence retrieval, genome synteny analysis, and a 3D structure viewer. As a comprehensive multi-omics resource, DrosGB facilitates comparative genomics and evolutionary studies in the Drosophila genus and provides a valuable platform for investigating gene evolution and functional diversification.