Computers in biology: the future is today

Area of Science:

• Biological Sciences
• Computer Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Microcomputers have become increasingly important in various biological fields.
• Their applications span laboratory work, event simulation, and word processing.
• Biology is also influencing computer technology, notably in the development of molecular computers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the diverse applications of microcomputers in contemporary biology.
• To highlight the role of microcomputers in laboratory functions and educational tools.
• To examine the reciprocal influence between biology and computer technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of current microcomputer applications in biological research and education.
• Categorization of laboratory computer functions into control, data acquisition, storage, and analysis.
• Discussion of emerging trends, such as molecular computing.

Main Results:

• Microcomputers are essential for experimental control, data acquisition, storage, and analysis in biological laboratories.
• Event simulation serves as a key research and educational tool.
• Word processing and automated reference list generation are often overlooked but valuable applications.
• Biotechnology research is actively pursuing the development of molecular computers.

Conclusions:

• Microcomputers offer significant utility across biological research, education, and administration.
• The field of biology is a catalyst for innovation in computer hardware, exemplified by molecular computing.
• Future biological applications of computing technology hold potential for expanding scientific horizons.