Reconstruction of DNA sequences using genetic algorithms and cellular automata: Towards mutation prediction?

Change of DNA sequence that fuels evolution is, to a certain extent, a deterministic process because mutagenesis does not occur in an absolutely random manner. So far, it has not been possible to decipher the rules that govern DNA sequence evolution due to the extreme complexity of the entire process. In our attempt to approach this issue we focus solely on the mechanisms of mutagenesis and deliberately disregard the role of natural selection. Hence, in this analysis, evolution refers to the accumulation of genetic alterations that originate from mutations and are transmitted through generations without being subjected to natural selection. We have developed a software tool that allows modelling of a DNA sequence as a one-dimensional cellular automaton (CA) with four states per cell which correspond to the four DNA bases, i.e. A, C, T and G. The four states are represented by numbers of the quaternary number system. Moreover, we have developed genetic algorithms (GAs) in order to dete...

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2008
• Where: BIOSYSTEMS
• Authors: Ch. Mizas, Georgios Ch. Sirakoulis, Vasilios A. Mardiris, Ioannis Karafyllidis, N. Glykos, R. Sandaltzopoulos
• Keywords: BIOSYSTEMS 2008, DNA Sequence, DNA Sequence Evolution, Evolution Rules