Microcomputer programs for DNA sequence analysis

Abstract

Computer programs are described which allow (a) analysis of DNA sequences to be performed on a laboratory microcomputer or (b) transfer of DNA sequences between a laboratory microcomputer and another computer system, such as a DNA library. The sequence analysis programs are interactive, do not require prior experience with computers and in many other respects resemble programs which have been written for larger computer systems (1–7). The user enters sequence data into a text file, accesses this file with the programs, and is then able to (a) search for restriction enzyme sites or other specified sequences, (b) translate in one or more reading frames in one or both directions in order to find open reading frames, or (c) determine codon useage in the sequence in one or more given reading frames. The results are given in table format and a restriction map is generated. The modem program permits collection of large amounts of data from a sequence library into a permanent file on the microcomputer disc system, or transfer of laboratory data in the reverse direction to a remote computer system.