Introduction to Bioinformatics Bioinformatics, the application of computers in the biological sciences, especially analysis of biological sequence data, is becoming an essential tool in molecular biology as genome projects generate vast quantities of data. With new sequences being added to DNA databases on an average of once a minute, there is a pressing need to convert this information into biochemical and biophysical knowledge by deciphering the structural, functional and evolutionary clues encoded in the language of biological sequences. The unique combination of this timely text and its linked World Wide Web site provides an ideal guide to bioinformatics for newcomers, focusing on two key areas: genomic and protein sequence analysis. The text begins by introducing the most popular databases (protein and nucleic acid), information resources, and analysis methods (sequence alignment and pattern recognition) currently available, providing a basis for readers to progress to hands-on practical sequence analysis. Chapter 9 then provides a tutorial directly linked to a real application, in the form of an internationally acclaimed interactive bioinformatics practical on the World Wide Web. The authors aim to encourage a thoughtful approach to sequence analysis and emphasize underlying concepts since, in this rapidly developing area, the specifics will change very quickly. Salient Features • Unique guide to bioinformatics linked to an interactive practical on the World Wide Web • Introduces key databases, tools and resources, and outlines pitfalls of methods • The Web link integrates conventional and Web-based publishing, allowing interactive exploration of concepts discussed in the book • Includes numerous 'Further Reading' suggestions, Web references and a useful glossary