The gene identification problem: An overview for developers

The gene identification problem is the problem of interpreting nucleotide sequences by computer, in order to provide tentative annotation on the location, structure, and functional class of protein-coding genes. This problem is of self-evident importance, and is far from being fully solved, particularly for higher eukaryotes. Thus it is not surprising that the number of algorithm and software developers working in the area is rapidly increasing. The present paper is an overview of the field, with an emphasis on eukaryotes, for such developers.