Quantum neural networks for protein post-translational modification, protein function prediction and DNA analysis
Bac Trong Nguyen, Van-Nui Nguyen, Hiep L. Thi
Quantum Neural Networks (QNNs) are emerging as promising tools for complex biological data analysis due to their ability to exploit quantum mechanics for enhanced computational power. In Sec. 2 , we provide readers with a comprehensive overview of proteins, DNA sequencing, and recent updates on classical approaches to PTM prediction, protein function analysis and DNA analysis. Furthermore, we present recent findings that underscore the limitations of traditional methods and justify the need for quantum approaches. This section also highlights the unique advantages and potential benefits that quantum-based methods offer over classical techniques, paving the way for more powerful and accurate solutions in biological data analysis. These tasks are critical for understanding protein regulation, cellular processes and genetic information. In Sec. 3 , we provide a comprehensive review of various QNN architectures that have been proposed to date, categorized based on current theoretical and practical developments. The models discussed include Quantum McCulloch–Pitts (M–P) Neural Networks, Quantum Competitive Neural Networks, Quantum-Inspired Neural Networks, Quantum Dot Neural Networks, Quantum Cellular Neural Networks and Quantum Associative Neural Networks. Each of these models offers unique computational mechanisms rooted in quantum principles such as superposition, entanglement and interference, enabling them to capture complex patterns in high-dimensional biological data. We further highlight their potential and emerging applications in bioinformatics, particularly in the prediction of protein Post-translational Modifications (PTMs). Given the critical role of PTMs in regulating protein activity and cellular functions, leveraging QNNs provides a promising avenue for improving prediction accuracy and interpretability in large-scale proteomic datasets. In Sec. 4 , we present the latest advancements in the application of quantum machine learning in genomics, quantum computing for protein structure and function prediction, as well as quantum machine learning in drug discovery and molecular modeling. Section 5 discusses the current limitations of quantum hardware and the challenges in training quantum models. In Sec. 6 , we propose potential improvements for quantum machine learning models in bioinformatics, including hybrid quantum–classical architectures and more efficient quantum circuit designs. Finally, Sec. 7 concludes the review by summarizing the key insights and outlining specific future research directions, particularly focusing on extending our recent findings into the broader field of quantum machine learning. Together with a system of illustrative figures presented in Secs. 2 – 4 , as well as concrete examples of algorithms discussed in Sec. 4 , this review provides a solid foundation for future applications of quantum machine learning in bioinformatics and highlights the transformative potential of quantum models in revolutionizing biological data analysis.
International Journal of Modern Physics C•Feb 12, 2026•0 citations