Symmetry and symmetry breaking: An algebraic approach to the genetic code

Authors
Hornos, JEM Hornos, YMM Forger, M
Citation
Jem. Hornos et al., Symmetry and symmetry breaking: An algebraic approach to the genetic code, INT J MOD B, 13(23), 1999, pp. 2795-2885
Citations number
68
Categorie Soggetti
Apllied Physucs/Condensed Matter/Materiales Science
Journal title
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MODERN PHYSICS B
ISSN journal
02179792 → ACNP
Volume
13
Issue
23
Year of publication
1999
Pages
2795 - 2885
Database
ISI
SICI code
0217-9792(19990920)13:23<2795:SASBAA>2.0.ZU;2-S
Abstract
We give a comprehensive review of the algebraic approach to the genetic cod e originally proposed by two of the present authors, which aims at explaini ng the degeneracies encountered in the genetic code as the result of a sequ ence of symmetry breakings that have occurred during its evolution. We pres ent the relevant background material from molecular biology and from mathem atics, including the representation theory of (semi) simple Lie groups/alge bras, together with considerations of general nature.