Statistical signal processing approach to DNA repair

Signal processing, and especially statistical signal processing, is a field in which generic tools for modeling, analysis and processing of signals are developed. Traditionally, it has been used in technology, and most modern technological systems apply advanced signal processing. However, the post-genomic era introduces challenges which, from a signal processing point of view, may lead to new understanding and promising results. We propose to apply statistical signal processing tools to the problem of DNA repair, where nature operates as a master engineer. The DNA repair process consists of small machines (proteins, enzymes), which continuously transmit and receive signals from each other. The system regulates its operation; it has feedback loops and backup paths. We suggest modeling the components of the DNA repair system by a probability Markov state diagram.