The genetic code, the blueprint of life, hides many secrets in its structure. One of the most fascinating aspects is the way it translates genetic information into proteins essential for all living organisms. Recent discoveries have shown that mathematical patterns, such as the famous Fibonacci sequence, may be the key to uncovering hidden symmetries in the genetic code. These symmetries are not merely abstract concepts, but could be the basis for understanding how life itself is organized at the molecular level. By exploring these patterns, we can gain new insights into the fundamental processes that govern life, including how amino acids behave in their natural environment.
A team of researchers has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the genetic code by using Fibonacci-like sequences to uncover hidden symmetries in amino acids, particularly in their physiological state. This study, conducted by Professor Tidjani Négadi of the University of Oran (Algeria), presents a new mathematical approach to analysing the genetic code. The results were published in the journal Symmetry.
Professor Négadi used a set of Fibonacci-like sequences to investigate the symmetries present in the genetic code when amino acids are in a physiological environment. Unlike previous studies where amino acids were considered neutral, this research takes into account the charged state of amino acids at a physiological pH of around 7.4. In this state, certain amino acids are charged, which affects the symmetries within the genetic code.
The study focuses on several key symmetries, including Rumer symmetry, third-base symmetry, and “ideal” symmetry along with “supersymmetry” classification schemes. These symmetries are crucial to understanding the structure and function of the genetic code, particularly in relation to how genetic codons encode amino acids.
“Our Fibonacci-type sequences allow us to describe the hydrogen atom content and atomic patterns in the amino acids encoded by the genetic code with remarkable precision,” explained Professor Négadi. The research not only reaffirms known symmetries, but also reveals new patterns that had not been detected previously. These findings could have important implications for understanding the fundamental principles of genetics and molecular biology.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this study is the application of these sequences to the amino acid proline, which has a unique chemical structure. Proline is the only amino acid whose side chain is attached to its backbone twice, giving rise to two possible interpretations of its structure. Professor Négadi explored both perspectives, showing how these views fit into the broader picture of the symmetries of the genetic code.
The study also delves into the multiplet structure of the genetic code, in which individual amino acids are encoded by a variable number of codons. Using Fibonacci-like sequences, Professor Négadi was able to describe the exact degenerate structure of the standard genetic code and even apply this method to non-standard versions, such as the Alternative Nuclear Code of Yeast.
“The effectiveness of our method in unraveling complex relationships within the genetic code is evident from the way it seamlessly integrates with existing knowledge while also providing new insights,” said Professor Négadi. This approach could be used to study other non-standard genetic codes, potentially offering a deeper understanding of how genetic information is encoded and expressed in different organisms.
In summary, Professor Négadi's research offers a new perspective on the genetic code by highlighting the symmetries that govern it, even when amino acids are in a charged physiological state. His use of Fibonacci-like sequences provides a powerful tool for deciphering the complexities of genetics, opening up new avenues for research in molecular biology.
Journal reference
Négadi, T. Fibonacci-like sequences reveal symmetries of the genetic code, even when amino acids are in a physiological environment. Symmetry, 2024, 16, 293. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16030293
About the author
Dr. Tidjani Negadi
Born on January 26, 1950 in Tlemcen, Algeria, Tidjani Négadi is a Distinguished Lecturer at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Exact and Applied Sciences, Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella University, Oran, Algeria. With a deep interest in theoretical and mathematical biology, Négadi has contributed significantly in several fields, especially in exploring the connections between physics and biological systems.
Négadi's research interests are broad and interdisciplinary, focusing on the mathematical modelling of biological systems, in particular the genetic code. He has explored the symmetries of the genetic code, the use of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers, and the application of quantum-like approaches to biological systems. His work bridges the gap between physics and biology, offering new insights into genetic information and its underlying structures.
Tidjani Négadi's contributions to science have been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors. He has served on the Executive Committee and Advisory Committee of the International Symmetry Association (ISA) and the Editorial and Advisory Committee of NeuroQuantology. His role as guest editor of several special issues in major journals demonstrates his leadership in the scientific community.
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