The genetic code, the blueprint for life, holds many secrets within its structure. One of the most fascinating aspects is how it translates genetic information into the proteins that are essential for all living organisms. Recent discoveries have shown that mathematical patterns, like the famous Fibonacci sequence, may be key to uncovering hidden symmetries in the genetic code. These symmetries are not just abstract concepts but could be the foundation for understanding how life itself is organized at the molecular level. By exploring these patterns, we can gain new insights into the fundamental processes that govern life, even down to how amino acids behave in their natural environment.
Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the genetic code by using Fibonacci-like sequences to uncover hidden symmetries within amino acids, particularly in their physiological state. This study, conducted by Professor Tidjani Négadi from the University of Oran in Algeria, presents a novel mathematical approach to analyzing the genetic code. The findings were published in the journal Symmetry.
Professor Négadi used a set of Fibonacci-like sequences to investigate the symmetries present in the genetic code when amino acids are in a physiological environment. Unlike previous studies where amino acids were considered neutral, this research takes into account the charged state of amino acids at a physiological pH of around 7.4. In this state, certain amino acids are charged, which affects the symmetries within the genetic code.
The study focuses on several key symmetries, including Rumer’s symmetry, the third-base symmetry, and the “ideal” symmetry along with the “supersymmetry” classification schemes. These symmetries are crucial for understanding the genetic code’s structure and function, particularly in relation to how amino acids are encoded by the genetic codons.
“Our Fibonacci-like sequences allow us to describe the hydrogen atom content and atom patterns in the amino acids encoded by the genetic code with remarkable accuracy,” Professor Négadi explained. The research not only reaffirms known symmetries but also reveals new patterns that were previously undetected. These findings could have significant implications for understanding the fundamental principles of genetics and molecular biology.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this study is the application of these sequences to the amino acid proline, which has a unique chemical structure. Proline is the only amino acid whose side chain is bound to its backbone twice, leading to two possible interpretations of its structure. Professor Négadi explored both perspectives, showing how these views fit into the larger picture of genetic code symmetries.
The study also delves into the multiplet structure of the genetic code, where different amino acids are encoded by varying numbers of codons. Using the Fibonacci-like sequences, Professor Négadi was able to describe the exact degeneracy structure of the standard genetic code and even apply this method to non-standard versions, such as the Alternative Yeast Nuclear Code.
“The efficiency of our method in unraveling the complex relationships within the genetic code is evident from the way it seamlessly integrates with existing knowledge while providing new insights,” Professor Négadi noted. This approach could be used to study other non-standard genetic codes, potentially offering a deeper understanding of how genetic information is encoded and expressed in different organisms.
In summary, Professor Négadi’s research offers a fresh perspective on the genetic code by highlighting the symmetries that govern it, even when amino acids are in a charged, physiological state. His use of Fibonacci-like sequences provides a powerful tool for decoding the complexities of genetics, opening new avenues for research in molecular biology.
Journal Reference
Négadi, T. Fibonacci-like Sequences Reveal the Genetic Code Symmetries, Also When the Amino Acids Are in a Physiological Environment. Symmetry, 2024, 16, 293. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/sym16030293
About the Author
Dr. Tidjani Négadi
Born on January 26, 1950, in Tlemcen, Algeria, Tidjani Négadi is a distinguished Maître de Conférence at the Physics Department, Faculty of Exact and Applied Science, University Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran, Algeria. With a profound interest in theoretical and mathematical biology, Négadi has significantly contributed to various fields, especially in exploring the connections between physics and biological systems.
Négadi’s research interests are vast and interdisciplinary, focusing on the mathematical modeling of biological systems, particularly the genetic code. He has explored the symmetries in the genetic code, the use of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers, and the application of quantum-like approaches to biological systems. His work bridges the gap between physics and biology, offering novel insights into genetic information and its underlying structures.
Tidjani Négadi’s contributions to science have been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors. He has served as a member of the Executive Board and Advisory Board of the International Symmetry Association (ISA) and the Advisory and Editorial Board of NeuroQuantology. His role as a guest editor for various special issues in prominent journals showcases his leadership in the scientific community.
