Work

Advances in post-processing methods for multiple sequence alignment

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The reliability of multiple sequence alignment (MSA) results directly determines the credibility of the conclusions drawn from biological research. However, MSA is inherently an NP-hard problem, making it theoretically impossible to guarantee a globally optimal solution. Consequently, in addition to developing more efficient alignment algorithms, improving the quality of initial alignments through post-processing optimization has become an important strategy for enhancing the overall alignment accuracy. Although post-processing methods have shown potential in improving alignment accuracy, currently, there is a lack of systematic reviews and summaries. In this review, we provide a systematic overview of the development and key research ideas of MSA post-processing methods over the past 3 decades and outline potential directions for future research.

Source: Frontiers in Genetics

DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2025.1722317

Authors: Yixiao Zhai, Zitong Zhang, Zhen Li

Institutions: University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Harbin Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China