Nothing in evolution makes sense except in the light of code biology

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Code biology
• Systems biology

Background:

• Living systems function based on organic codes, a concept by Marcello Barbieri.
• Organic codes involve rule-based molecular interactions, differing from physical/chemical law-based constraints.
• This distinction between rules (living) and laws (non-living) is often overlooked in evolutionary theory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the contribution of biological codes to evolutionary dynamics.
• To introduce a classification of structural and regulatory codes for quantitative analysis.
• To explore the implications of code 'Eigendynamics' for understanding biological systems and macroevolution.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of Marcello Barbieri's organic codes theory.
• Introduction of a dichotomous classification: structural and regulatory codes.
• Application of classification to analyze principles like modularity, hierarchy, and robustness.

Main Results:

• Organic codes provide a framework for quantifying biological systems and comparing them.
• A classification system aids in analyzing organizing principles of life.
• Code 'Eigendynamics' (internal momentum) influences biological behavior, contrasting with external physical constraints.

Conclusions:

• Biological codes are essential for a comprehensive understanding of evolution.
• Integrating codes into evolutionary research enables a quantitative and empirical agenda.
• Codes offer unique insights into the internal drivers of biological system behavior and macroevolution.