# Self-folding Self-replication

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.07154 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2408.07154/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 2 of its 3 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 13 Aug 2024.

## Builds on (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Towards a Self-Replicating Turing Machine](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2306.16872/) (2023)
- [Mechanical Self-replication](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2407.14556/) (2024)

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Self-Replicating Mechanical Universal Turing Machine](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2409.19037/) (2024)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Inspired by protein folding, we explored the construction of three-dimensional structures and machines from one-dimensional chains of simple building blocks. This approach not only allows us to recreate the self-replication mechanism introduced earlier, but also significantly simplifies the process. We introduced a new set of folding blocks that facilitate the formation of secondary structures such as α-helices and beta-sheets, as well as more advanced tertiary and quaternary structures, including self-replicating machines. The introduction of rotational degrees of freedom leads to a reduced variety of blocks and, most importantly, reduces the overall size of the machines by a factor of five. In addition, we present a universal copier-constructor, a highly efficient self-replicating mechanism composed of approximately 40 blocks, including the restictions posed on it. The paper also addresses evolutionary considerations, outlining several steps on the evolutionary ladder towards more sophisticated self-replicating systems. Finally, this study offers a clear rationale for nature's preference for one-dimensional chains in constructing three-dimensional structures.