Molecular Sequence Analysis: A Primer on Computational and Bioinformatic Approaches

Today, biological sequence data is available for biologists to translate analyses from datasets into knowledge that elucidates questions relating to evolution, biological function, and disease. This book introduces the computational and statistical methods required to facilitate these analyses. It progresses from analysis of a single sequence to those with increasing complexity, allowing the authors to discuss methods and techniques in the simplest setting before introducing more complicated material. No advanced knowledge of computer science, statistics, or biology is assumed, making it an ideal textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate students.   Features optional boxes with information about interesting sidelights and experimental techniquesTakes a problems approach to facilitate enquiry-based learning in the classroom and for self-studyReviews the most useful database resourcesIncludes sample data sets for self-study and Web exercisesLists examplesEach chapter concludes with a list of further readings and helpful resourcesSupplementary website features datasets, links to databases, and additional problem setsDiscusses the use of BioPerl to automate data retrievalConcludes with the authors’ perspective on the future of comparative sequence analysisAuthors use an innovative approach to introduce techniques and methods in a progressive fashion starting from the simplest (one sequence) case and ending with analysis of complex, large data sets.Small datasets presented in each chapter can be used as inquiry datasets to highlight biologically interesting properties or questions.References are given to sources for more thorough theoretical treatments, and to web sites containing the latest on-line documentation for use of software programs.