Functions of non‑coding DNA

Determine the biological functions, if any, of non‑coding DNA sequences that constitute approximately 98% of nuclear DNA, including their roles in regulation, structure, evolution, and disease.

Background

In their discussion of information theory in biophysics, Lázaro A M Castanedo, Peyman Fahimi, and Chérif F Matta note that only a small fraction of the genome encodes proteins, while the vast majority consists of non‑coding DNA. They emphasize that the functions of this large non‑coding portion remain largely unresolved.

Understanding non‑coding DNA is vital for interpreting genomic data, elucidating regulatory networks, and addressing questions related to evolution, health, and disease.