H curves, a novel method of representation of nucleotide series especially suited for long DNA sequences.

Abstract In order to create an alternative to the customary letter-series representation of nucleotide sequences a novel method was developed based on computer graphics. In this new method, the information content of a nucleotide sequence is mapped into a three-dimensional space function (H curve) which can be displayed and manipulated conveniently. Even very long nucleotide sequences can be represented by compact H curves. Such curves are not only characteristic "fingerprints" of complex genetic messages but also embody important parameters concerning the distribution of nucleotides. H curves appear to be particularly suitable for the visual analysis and comprehension of both the local and the global features of long DNA sequences.