text: MG-RAST was developed to serve as a free, public resource dedicated to the analysis and storage of metagenome sequence data. It addresses a key bottleneck in metagenome analysis by eliminating the dependence on high-performance computing for annotating data.
  The significance of MG-RAST becomes evident in metagenomic and metatranscriptomic studies, where the processing of large datasets often requires computationally intensive analyses. With the substantial reduction in sequencing costs in recent years, scientists can generate vast amounts of data. However, the limiting factor has shifted to computing costs. For example, a recent University of Maryland study estimated a cost exceeding $5 million per terabase using their CLOVR metagenome analysis pipeline. As sequence datasets' size and number continue to grow, the associated analysis costs are expected to rise.
  Beyond analysis, MG-RAST functions as a repository tool for metagenomic data. Metadata collection and interpretation are crucial for genomic and metagenomic studies. MG-RAST addresses challenges related to the exchange, curation, and distribution of this information. The system has embraced minimal checklist standards and biome-specific environmental packages established by the Genomics Standards Consortium. Furthermore, MG-RAST provides a user-friendly uploader for capturing metadata at the time of data submission.