Peak calling algorithms

Peak calling algorithms analyze data from experiments like ChIP-seq to identify regions in the genome where proteins, such as transcription factors, bind strongly. They process the sequencing data to distinguish true signal peaks—areas of genuine protein binding—from background noise. By applying statistical models and thresholds, these algorithms pinpoint specific genomic locations with significant enrichment, helping researchers understand gene regulation mechanisms. Essentially, peak calling transforms raw sequencing data into meaningful insights about where proteins interact with DNA, providing a map of functional genomic regions.