An information theoretical approach to the identification of conserved patterns in immunoglobulin domain protein sequences

Abstract

In this thesis we use information theory together with computational techniques in order to analyse biological data. We create a framework that will evaluate whether different sites of interest are related to each other. Proteins are vital components that are found in living organisms. A protein is made up of amino acids. There are twenty types of amino acids, each with its own unique properties, that are used to form proteins. To represent proteins, an alphabet is used with different letters standing for each amino acid type. Amino acids bind to each other, side-by-side, like a chain to form a protein. A protein is represented as a finite string over the alphabet of amino acid types. The protein's function is a result of its amino acid composition. This can range from acting as hormones to working as part of the organism's immune system. A protein is made up of one or more domains. A domain is a section of the protein that can be studied independently of another.