Introduction
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There are similarities and differences in the manner that cells and computers function. These justify why cell researchers are hoping to make cells resemble the functioning of computers as biological systems to derive in-depth understanding of the genetic characteristics and processes (Parens, 2008). The concept of the computer and computer programming in turn mimic some basic functioning of cells.
Similarities & Differences
The differences in the functioning of cells and computers arise from the similar characteristics.
First, while both cells and computers are systems, these systems operate differently. Both cells and computers are made up of parts interacting in a process. However, the components of cells as a system are organic independent but interlinked sub-systems engaged in processes such as cellular respiration in the cytoplasm (NCBI, 2004); while the components of computers are its basic parts such as the CPU and its various key pieces including the motherboard, memory drive, video card among others and a monitor and no process occurs without a CPU or a monitor (Bedford Public Library, 2009).
Second, cells and computers are functional systems. However, cells operate through biological processes so that inputs in cells do not necessarily yield to the expected result while computer operate through artificial systems with inputs likely to lead to the expected result (Parens, 2008). Cells are more difficult to control relative to computers in terms of outcomes.
Third, both cells and computers evolve. However, cells could evolve naturally while computers only evolve through human intervention. The evolution of cells comprises one explanation for the creation of man with a single cell evolving into organisms. Procreation commences with human intervention but once the intervention has been started, cells can evolve to create new life. Computers cannot evolve when left alone without human intervention through innovations and upgrades. Even with an upgrade, a computer cannot further evolve beyond the added capability or feature. Using a bigger memory improves the storage capacity of the computer but only to the limit of the added memory.
Fourth, cells and computers operate through instructions. However, cells receiving instruction from information embedded in DNA could at the same time adapt and self-regulate by considering its needs and excesses to make the necessary adjustments (NCBI, 2004) while computers are limited only to the scope of the instructions from software (Bedford Public Library, 2009). Cells adjust and self-regulate through intracellular signals such as for example when it needs oxygen, cells sends the necessary signal to obtain this and make the necessary adjustments such as allow substances to pass through the cytoplasm. Computers are limited to the extent of the instruction such as to save a paper through the ctrl S command.
Fifth, both cells and computers rest. However, cells continuously function even while at rest when the body or host is at rest (NCBI, 2004) while computers completely cease to operate when shut down (Bedford Public Library, 2009). Cells are active even when in a state of rest by retaining conditions such as the organelles separating chemical reactions so that the process continuous when the cells become active again. Computers are completely non-operational when shut down. Restarting the computer could lead to lost data without backup.
Conclusion
The distinctions between cells and computers show the greater complexity and variability in the functioning of cells when compared to computers. The differences are due to the natural characteristic of cells and the artificial feature of computers.
References
Bedford Public Library. (2009). Basic computer concepts. Retrieved February 23, 2009, from
http://www.bedford.lib.nh.us/Basics.htm
NCBI. (2004). A basic introduction to the science underlying NCBI resources: What is a cell?. Retrieved February 23, 2009, from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/About/primer/genetics_cell.html
Parens, E. (2008, February 21). Making cells like computers. International Herald Tribune. Retrieved February 23, 2009, from
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/21/opinion/edparens.php
