Unifying Phylogenetic Traversal and Deep Learning to Guide Tree Exploration

Clicks: 2
ID: 325568
2026
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Abstract
Deep learning offers hope for more efficient phylogenetic inference methods. However, it has yet to have the transformative effect on phylogenetics that it has had in other fields. Here we present a novel approach that combines deep learning with concepts behind current successful phylogenetic algorithms. Specifically, we give the deep learning algorithm access to the output of a phylogenetic dynamic program on the sequence alignment, rather than the raw sequence alignment. The algorithm then learns features based on these phylogenetically processed versions of the sequence data, providing information to guide local tree search. For this paper, our goal is simple: predict for each edge in a tree whether it is in a maximum parsimony tree or not. Our model consists of a recurrent neural network that learns features while traversing the input tree, which are used to classify the edge. The model makes high-quality predictions for this NP-complete problem on simulated and empirical datasets for trees of various sizes. We believe it is a stepping stone towards efficient phylogenetic inference using deep learning.
Reference Key
openalex_W7124318915 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Lena Collienne, Harry Richman, David H Rich, Mary Barker, Chris Jennings-Shaffer, Frederick A Matsen
Journal systematic biology
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/sysbio/syag062
URL
Keywords Keywords not found

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