Sign-sensitivity of metabolic networks: which structures determine the sign of the responses

Abstract: Perturbations are ubiquitous in metabolism. A central tool to understand their effect is sensitivity analysis, which investigates how the network responds to external perturbations. In this talk we follow a structural approach, only based on the network stoichiometry and not requiring any quantitative knowledge of the reaction rates. We consider perturbations of reaction rates, at equilibrium, and we investigate the responses of the reaction fluxes. We focus in particular on the sign of such responses, i.e. whether a response is positive, negative or whether its sign depends on the reaction rates parameters. We identify and describe certain kernel vectors of the stoichiometric matrix, which are the main players in the sign description.

algebraic geometrydynamical systemsprobability

Audience: researchers in the topic

( video )

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Seminar on the Mathematics of Reaction Networks

Series comments: Subscription link: list.ku.dk/postorius/lists/morn.list.ku.dk/

This seminar series focuses on progress in mathematical theory for the study of reaction networks, mainly in biology and chemistry. The scope is broad and accommodates works arising from dynamical systems, stochastics, algebra, topology and beyond.

We aim at providing a common forum for sharing knowledge and encouraging discussion across subfields. In particular we aim at facilitating interactions between junior and established researchers. These considerations will be represented in the choice of invited speakers and we will strive to create an excellent, exciting and diverse schedule.

The seminar runs twice a month, typically on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, at 17:00 Brussels time (observe that this webpage shows the schedule in your current time zone). Each session consists of two 25-minute talks followed by 5-minute questions. After the two talks, longer discussions will take place for those interested. To this end, we will use breakout rooms. For this to work well, you need to have the latest version of Zoom installed (version 5.3.0 or higher), and use the desktop client or mobile app (not supported on ChromeOS).

We look forward hearing about new work and meeting many of you over zoom!

The organizers.

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