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Why genetic information processing could have a quantum basis

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Abstract

Living organisms are not just random collections of organic molecules. There is continuous information processing going on in the apparent bouncing around of molecules of life. Optimization criteria in this information processing can be searched for using the laws of physics. Quantum dynamics can explain why living organisms have 4 nucleotide bases and 20 amino acids, as optimal solutions of the molecular assembly process. Experiments should be able to tell whether evolution indeed took advantage of quantum dynamics or not.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for Theoretical Studies and Supercomputer Education and Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, 560 012, Bangalore, India

    Apoorva Patel

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  1. Apoorva Patel
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Patel, A. Why genetic information processing could have a quantum basis. J Biosci 26, 145–151 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02703638

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02703638

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