Multistability in biochemical reachtion networks

16.30 Uhr: Tee und Kaffee in der Bibliothek im Runden Zimmer (1. Stock)
17.00 Uhr: Vortrag im Hörsaal des Mathematischen Instituts
Im Anschluss ist eine Nachsitzung geplant, Gaststätte Zum Löwen, Gießen

Abstract: Many situations in biochemistry can be modelled by systems of ordinary
differential equations. ODE of this type are called reaction networks. In chemistry a closed
system has a unique steady state (time-independent solution) and all other solutions
converge to it at late times - it is globally asymptotically stable. In contrast the reaction
networks of biochemistry often correspond to open systems. They have several steady
states and only some of these are stable. This is important for modelling biological
phenomena such as cell differentiation. In this talk I will discuss approaches to determine
the number and stability of steady states of reaction networks, including geometric
singular perturbation theory and centre manifolds. I will illustrate these using one rich
example, the multiple futile cycle. I will also discuss the issues of what mathematical
models and mathematical proofs can contribute to biology and what they cannot