Biomolecular processing of optical signals: I. General principles

Natural biomolecular information processing utilizes conformational (shape-based) interactions that support capabilities complementary to those of conventional computers. Optical technologies provide a means for interfacing these inherently different modes of processing to achieve hybrid systems with unique computational synergies. Part one of this two part paper addresses the conformational, kinetic, structural, and dynamic features of biomolecular systems that are pertinent to the processing of optical signals. Part II describes a simulation tool for studying the interaction of these factors and considers how this tool could in the future to be used to design biomolecular devices capable of processing optical signal patterns.