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1.How gene networks respond to external changes?[Original Blog]
Navigating Perturbations: How Gene Networks Respond to External Changes
1. Robustness and Sensitivity:
- Gene networks exhibit a delicate balance between robustness and sensitivity. Robustness ensures stability in the face of perturbations, while sensitivity allows for adaptive responses.
- Example: Consider a metabolic pathway. If an enzyme within the pathway is inhibited due to an external stressor (e.g., nutrient scarcity), the network may compensate by upregulating an alternative pathway or adjusting flux rates.
2. Feedback Loops and Resilience:
- Feedback loops are common motifs in gene networks. Negative feedback loops dampen fluctuations, promoting stability. Positive feedback loops amplify signals, enabling rapid responses.
- Example: In a stress response pathway, negative feedback may regulate the expression of stress-related genes. If stress persists, positive feedback could enhance the response, activating additional protective mechanisms.
3. Bifurcation Points and Decision Making:
- Gene networks often have bifurcation points—critical nodes where decisions are made. These points determine cell fate, differentiation, or adaptation.
- Example: During embryonic development, a gene network decides whether a cell becomes a neuron or a muscle cell. Perturbations at this juncture can alter the entire developmental trajectory.
4. Redundancy and Buffering:
- Redundancy—having multiple genes with similar functions—enhances robustness. Buffering mechanisms absorb fluctuations, preventing catastrophic outcomes.
- Example: Heat shock proteins (HSPs) act as chaperones, ensuring proper protein folding. If one HSP gene is mutated, others compensate, maintaining proteostasis.
- Gene networks evolve under selective pressures. Robustness may come at the cost of adaptability, and vice versa.
- Example: A gene network that optimizes growth under stable conditions may struggle to respond to sudden environmental changes.
- Epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation, histone acetylation) influence gene network dynamics. They provide an additional layer of responsiveness.
- Example: Epigenetic changes induced by stress can alter gene expression patterns, affecting long-term resilience.
7. Network Plasticity and Learning:
- Gene networks exhibit plasticity—rewiring connections based on experience or environmental cues. This plasticity enables learning and adaptation.
- Example: Neuronal gene networks rewire during memory formation. Perturbations (e.g., learning a new skill) trigger synaptic changes and alter network connectivity.
In summary, gene networks are intricate, adaptive systems that respond dynamically to perturbations. Startup resilience, like cellular robustness, relies on understanding these principles. By navigating the complexities of gene networks, startups can learn valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability without compromising stability.
How gene networks respond to external changes - Gene network robustness Navigating Gene Networks: Lessons for Startup Resilience