The genetic code as a periodic table: algebraic aspects

The systematics of indices of physico-chemical properties of codons and ami no acids across the genetic code are examined. Using a simple numerical lab elling scheme for nucleic acid bases, A=(-1,0), C=(0,-1), G=(0,1), U=(1,0), data can be fitted as low order polynomials of the six coordinates in the 64-dimensional codon weight space. The work confirms and extends the recent studies by Siemion et al. (1995. BioSystems 36, 231-238) of the conformati onal parameters. Fundamental patterns in the data such as codon periodiciti es, and related harmonics and reflection symmetries, are here associated wi th the structure of the set of basis monomials chosen for fitting. Results are plotted using the Siemion one-step mutation ring scheme, and variants t hereof. The connections between the present work, and recent studies of the genetic code structure using dynamical symmetry algebras, are pointed out. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.