DB-Curve: A novel 2D method of DNA sequence visualization and representation

Abstract

The large number of bases in a DNA sequence and the cryptic nature of the 4-alphabet representation make graphical visualization of DNA sequences useful for biologists. However, existing 3D graphical representations are complicated, whereas existing 2D graphical representations suffer from high degeneracy, and many features in a DNA sequence cannot be visualized clearly. This Letter introduces a novel 2D method of DNA representation: the DB-Curve (Dual-Base Curve), which overcomes some of the limitations in existing 2D graphical representations. Many properties of DNA sequences can be observed and visualized easily using a combination of DB-Curves. The new representation can avoid degeneracy completely compared to existing 2D graphical representations of DNA sequences. Unlike 3D graphical representations, no 2D projection is required for the DB-Curve, and this allows for easier analysis of DNA sequences. The DB-Curve provides a useful graphical tool for the visualization and study of DNA sequences.