Scientists Turn Molecules Into Music to Find New Patterns

Have you ever wondered what your DNA sounds like? Maybe not, but many researchers have, and they’re combining music and science to find patterns, create new music therapy treatments, and bring molecular biology to the masses. One such scientist is Mark Temple, who used his background in music to better understand his work, looking at DNA sequences to research cancer treatment drugs. “I realized I wanted to hear the sequence,” Temple said. “You know, the combination of some sort of audio display and a visual display is much more powerful than either in isolation.” So, he assigned notes to different DNA elements, and through this “musification” was able to spot patterns in the sequences better. Now, he performs his songs in public and at music halls in Australia. Other scientists have created entire albums based on molecules, matched sounds to human proteins to teach children anatomy, proposed using the music as a therapy treatment, and even turned individuals’ DNA makeup into their own personal songs. After listening to some of the tunes in the link below, you might find yourself adding molecular music to your playlists.

What Molecules Sound Like