  Many people are familiar with the physico-chemical properties of gene
sequences. In this paper I present a mathematical perspective: how do
mathematical principles such as information theory, coding theory, and
combinatorics influence the beginnings of life and the formation of the genetic
codes we observe today? What constraints on possible life forms are imposed by
information-theoretical concepts? Further, I detail how mathematical principles
can help us to analyse the genetic sequences we observe in the world today.
