Simulating Cell Population Dynamics in an Artificial Lac Operon Network
Author Information
Author(s): Stamatakis Michail, Zygourakis Kyriacos
Primary Institution: Rice University
Hypothesis
How do deterministic and stochastic dynamics affect the behavior of cell populations in an artificial lac operon genetic network?
Conclusion
Stochasticity can enhance phenotypic heterogeneity and influence population behavior in an artificial lac operon system.
Supporting Evidence
- Stochasticity can create or destroy bimodality in cell populations.
- The study provides insights for constructing simpler models of cell dynamics.
- Deterministic models can yield different predictions compared to stochastic models.
Takeaway
This study shows that tiny changes in how cells behave can make a big difference in how a whole group of cells acts, especially in a lab-made system.
Methodology
The study used two Monte Carlo simulation frameworks to model cell population dynamics, one assuming stochastic reactions and the other deterministic reactions.
Limitations
The models may not account for all biological complexities and interactions present in natural systems.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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