Ard A. Louis

Predicting the topography of fitness landscapes from the structure of genotype-phenotype maps

The paper predicts fitness landscape ruggedness and navigability using genotype-phenotype map properties like neutral component sizes and evolvability.

Bounding phenotype transition probabilities via conditional complexity

This study evaluates an upper bound on phenotype transition probabilities using conditional complexity across various genotype-phenotype maps and finds it provides meaningful estimates.

Natural protein structures have evolved exceptional robustness to mutations

The paper compares mutational profiles of natural, random, and de novo proteins to assess their structural robustness and evolutionary trajectories.

RNA secondary structures are conserved but random

The paper analyzes RNA secondary structures to determine if they show signs of positive selection, finding they are mostly random but shaped by developmental bias.

Developmental bias explains the evolutionary trend towards simple leaf shapes

The paper shows that developmental bias, not natural selection, drives the evolutionary trend towards simpler leaf shapes in angiosperms.

Controlling DNA-RNA strand displacement kinetics with base distribution

This study shows that base distribution along an invading strand strongly affects DNA-RNA strand displacement kinetics, enabling design of sequences with reaction rates spanning two orders of magnitude.

Rational design of hidden thermodynamic driving through DNA mismatch repair

The paper introduces a method to enhance thermodynamic drive in DNA strand displacement reactions by strategically placing mismatches, without significantly affecting forward reaction rates.