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SIGNAL SCAN: a computer program that scans DNA sequences for eukaryotic transcriptional elements.
1Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, NM 87545.
Computer Applications in the Biosciences : CABIOS
|April 1, 1991
Summary
SIGNAL SCAN is a program that helps molecular biologists identify eukaryotic transcription factor elements in DNA sequences. It uses databases of known elements, particularly useful for mammalian DNA analysis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Bioinformatics
- Genomics
Background:
- Identifying regulatory elements in DNA is crucial for understanding gene function.
- Existing tools may have limitations in comprehensive element detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce SIGNAL SCAN, a program designed to assist molecular biologists in identifying eukaryotic transcription factor elements.
- To provide a tool for analyzing DNA sequences for potential regulatory elements.
Main Methods:
- Utilizes flatfile databases of known transcription factor elements.
- Compares user-input DNA sequences against specific sequence elements and consensus sequences.
- Allows users to add novel elements not present in the database.
Main Results:
- SIGNAL SCAN identifies potential eukaryotic transcription factor elements within DNA sequences.
- The program is particularly effective for analyzing mammalian DNA sequences.
- Reports all matching elements, leaving biological relevance interpretation to the investigator.
Conclusions:
- SIGNAL SCAN serves as a valuable aid for molecular biologists in DNA sequence analysis.
- The program enhances the identification of known transcription factor binding sites.
- User-defined elements expand the program's utility for novel discoveries.