There are several major points of contact between the quantitative concepts in LS30 and biological topics in LS7. In this talk, we will review the basic approach of LS30, demonstrate the relationship and show applications to three concepts in LS7:
(1)
Moving beyond the “central dogma of molecular biology”.
We teach that the one-way arrows that lead from DNA to RNA, and from RNA to protein, are only a third of the correct picture, and that critical feedback arrows from RNA to DNA (Barbara McClintock) and from protein to DNA (Monod et al.) make for a more complete picture.
These feedback loops require mathematical modeling to understand their dynamics.
(2)
lac
operon and positive feedback.
An excellent example of feedback loops requiring mathematical modeling is the
lac
operon, where positive feedback loops controlling gene expression make for a bistable “switch”.
(3)
Oscillations and negative feedback.
Negative feedback from protein to gene expression can produce oscillatory gene expression, an important phenomenon (see, for example, 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology). We will review some oscillatory phenomena, and suggest important revisions of the doctrine of homeostasis.
