Self-replication, biological models

Cellular automata are abstract discrete dynamical systems introduced by Von Neumann in an attempt to model self-replication in biological systems [11]. A cellular automaton consists of a set of nodes, usually arranged on a regular lattice, each of which supports state variables that take on a finite number of possible values. The state variables are synchronously updated at discrete... 

These examples have demonstrated that it is possible to use the templating properties of a compound to accelerate its own formation. This is a potentially very attractive approach for the production of large quantities of a specific product with high selectivity. Furthermore, synthetic self-replicating systems also provide interesting models for their biological counterparts, which in turn could provide important clues to understand chemical evolution and indeed the origin of life itself. 

What matters is that the genotype - the biological software - is a deposit of instructions and therefore is potentially capable of carrying the project of embryonic development. This was the long-awaited answer to vitalism, and the computer became therefore the new model of mechanism. In reality, the new model of a living machine is not the computer that we encounter in our daily life, but an ideal machine known as von Neumann s self-replicating automaton. 

In order to address the characteristics of biological models, we have to first define the basic principles of biological systems that a supramolecular model may mimic. Among the most important are selective molecular recognition of a molecular entity selective and highly accelerated modification of a substrate (typieal role of enzymes) compartmentalization and selective translocation of chemical species across boundaries (typieal role of biomembranes) harvesting and transformation of energy and self-replication. 

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