gtfsort: a tool to efficiently sort GTF files

Abstract

The General Transfer Format (GTF) is a widely used format for gene annotation data, integral to various downstream analyses. Efficient management and sorting of GTF data are relevant, as unsorted data can intere with computational efficiency and interpretability. Sorted GTF data, on the other hand, enable more intuitive navigation of genomic structures and can enhance the performance of some bioinformatics tools. This paper presents gtfsort, a tool written in Rust, which efficiently sorts GTF files, outperforming existing software. By reducing computation times and providing structured outputs, gtfsort enhances the interpretation, relationships, and readability of gene annotation data.