Title

Mathematical model of proteins acting as on/off switches

Date of Completion

January 2001

Keywords

Mathematics

Degree

Ph.D.

Abstract

Multicellular organisms have a complex signaling system that allows for efficient intercellular crosstalk. This requires that each cell has a mechanism to read and understand the information coming from other cells. In this paper, we analyze a theoretical model of protein-protein interaction with respect to cell signalling. ^ According to the proposed model, a signal is achieved by a network of proteins. After given an external stimulus, the concentrations of various proteins reach a unique steady state which may signal the cell to perform a certain function. Both phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, which are important protein interactions processes, are included in the model. A more complicated spatial-temporal model which involves protein diffusion will also be studied. In both circumstances, we prove that transient solutions will be globally attracted to a certain unique steady state in a three species case. ^

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