forgeNet: a graph deep neural network model using tree-based ensemble classifiers for feature graph construction

MOTIVATION A unique challenge in predictive model building for omics data has been the small number of samples (n) versus the large amount of features (p). This "n ≪ p" property brings difficulties for disease outcome classification using deep learning techniques. Sparse learning by incorporating known functional relations between the biological units, such as the graph-embedded deep feedforward network (GEDFN) model, has been a solution to this issue. However, such methods require an existing feature graph, and potential mis-specification of the feature graph can be harmful on classification and feature selection. RESULTS To address this limitation and develop a robust classification model without relying on external knowledge, we propose a forest graph-embedded deep feedforward network (forgeNet) model, to integrate the GEDFN architecture with a forest feature graph extractor, so that the feature graph can be learned in a supervised manner and specifically constructed for a given prediction task. To validate the method's capability, we experimented the forgeNet model with both synthetic and real datasets. The resulting high classification accuracy suggests that the method is a valuable addition to sparse deep learning models for omics data. AVAILABILITY The method is available at https://github.com/yunchuankong/forgeNet.