PeakAUC: An R Shiny Application for Area Under the Peak Calculations and Nitric Oxide Analysis

Abstract

The analysis of time series data and area under the curve (AUC) is a widely used technique in biological research. There are several common challenges in analyzing the AUC from time series data that impact both accuracy and reproducibility of results. Most notable challenges involve the accurate detection of peaks, the determination of peak start and end times, and varying baseline values over time (i.e., baseline drift). Currently available programs for the analysis of AUC and time series data suffer from several limitations including an inability to adjust for multiple peak baselines (accounting for baseline drift) or attempt to perform automated peak detections that often result in missed or erroneous peaks. This problem is exaggerated when one is measuring samples close to the detection limit. In addition, these programs may be costly or require specific programming knowledge for use. PeakAUC allows users to visually select peaks and individually adjust for varying baselines while automatically calculating the AUCs for each peak. PeakAUC is a free, simple to use, and point and click web-based application that is specifically designed for peak selection and AUC calculations.