CODEGEN: the generation and testing of DNA code words

Abstract

With This work we present algorithms to generate and test DNA code words that avoid unwanted cross hybridizations. Methods from the theory of codes based on formal languages are employed. These algorithms are implemented in user-friendly software, CODEGEN, which contains a collection of language-theoretic objects adaptable to various related tasks. Lists of code words may be stored, viewed, altered and retested. Implemented in Visual Basic 6.0, its interface allows for lists of code words to be assembled at varying levels of acceptability from a single main window.