SOFTWARE FOR THE ANALYSIS OF DNA-SEQUENCE ELEMENTS OF TRANSCRIPTION

The detection of transcription control elements in DNA sequences becam e both more important and more complicated by the completion of the fi rst full genome sequencing projects. Rapid evaluation of potential reg ulatory elements in large amounts of sequence data requires specific m ethods preferably available as user-friendly computer programs. Howeve r, many more algorithms and methods have been published than programs are available creating problems for scientists who try to select an ap propriate method for their needs fi om the literature. The Internet pr ovides a worldwide and relatively easy access to computer software if the user knows where to look. One of the major problems remaining is h ow to find the appropriate software. We have compiled a guide detailin g where software is available and what is to be expected in terms of i nterface and data compatibility with other programs. We also show resu lts obtained with Each program for several examples. The summarized fe atures of each program should allow scientists to select quickly the m ethod of their choice and inform them where to download the software.