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teristic domain of the protein. But then please remember that after that you should also
examine the other pieces in the protein and assign the function.
Server see database.
Shannon Entropy Measure of the information content of a message (unit: bit).
Signal Cascade Signal path.
Signalling Pthway Signalling pathway.
Signalling Pathway Biological network that transmits a signal in which, for example,
kinases and phosphatases (or several enzymes) interact (are interconnected) and regulate
each other or each other in turn (e.g. activate and typically amplify cellular signals) and are
responsible for certain functions and processes in the cell, e.g. cell growth and cell
differentiation.
Simulation see Modelling.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) Changes in the DNA sequence at exactly one
nucleotide, which can lead to neutral, negative and positive health effects. Genes, proteins
and sequences that are involved, for example, in the structure of the nervous system, such
as at synapses, are thus assigned to their function with the aid of genome, sequence and
domain analysis. A detailed overview of SNPs is provided, for example, by the database
“Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man” (OMIM).
Software Commands (instructions) in the computer that are arranged in a meaningful
way and perform a specific task, e.g. programs, databases, simulations, models (see also
programs).
Synthetic Biology A branch of biology that deals with the technical use of biological
processes.
Systems Biology Modelling see mathematical modelling.
Tertiary Structure see protein structure.
Tipping Point A new system state (attractor) is sought when the tipping point is passed.
Because the old system state has been left far enough, the system will then enter a new
state because the new attractor will then stabilize and reinforce itself again if the system is
disturbed or changed enough.
Transcription Part of gene expression that leads to the formation of RNA from DNA
using a polymerase after the gene start sequence (promoter).
18 Glossary