A computer-based system and method are provided for retrieving information
from a number of data sources on a computer network containing biological
data. The network database is organized in a b-tree configuration having
a plurality of sample nodes. Each sample node includes a curated data set
of pre-formatted and pre-computed summary biological data obtained from
at least one biological sample. The plurality of sample nodes are
organized in a hierarchical arrangement according to clinical relevance.
A set of attributes is assigned to each sample node to facilitate
navigation through the database using a browser accessible through a
graphical user interface. The set of attributes including at least one
taxonomy designation selected from the group including tissues, diseases,
medications and sample parameters. Search results that are produced
include automated reports of the summary biological data stored in the
sample nodes and custom reports generated using the summary biological
data.