Modelling the Dynamics of Gene Regulatory Networks

Michael C. Mackey, McGill University

Abstract

Gene regulatory networks, like almost all other biological control systems, can display a fascinating spectrum of dynamical behaviours. These can range from relatively stable steady states through bistability and oscillatory dynamics--all of which can be important for the proper execution of their functional tasks. This talk will focus on some of the important issues in modelling these dynamics--including translating the biology into a proper mathematical framework, honest parameter estimation, numerical simulation and comparison with existing data.