BioDataHub: An Integrated VS Code Extension for Streamlined Bioinformatics Dataset Analysis and Visualization

Abstract Managing and analyzing large-scale bioinformatics datasets often requires multiple tools and complex workflows, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors. Here, we present BioDataHub, a Visual Studio Code extension designed to streamline dataset discovery, management, visu- alization, and analysis for bioinformatics researchers. BioDataHub integrates local and online dataset search, CSV preview, metadata generation, and interactive data visualization within a single IDE environment. To evaluate its utility, we applied BioDataHub to publicly available RNA-seq and microarray datasets, comparing workflow efficiency and data exploration outcomes against conventional tools. Results demonstrate that BioDataHub significantly reduces the time required for dataset preprocessing and provides intuitive visualizations that facilitate rapid in- sight generation. By combining accessibility, automation, and analytical capability, BioDataHub enhances bioinformatics data analysis workflows and offers a foundation for integrating further machine learning pipelines and advanced visualizations.