Mathematical modelling of a receptor-ligand system

Abstract: Effector T cells rely on IL-7 signalling for their survival. The IL-7 receptor (IL-7R), composed of the common gamma chain and the specific alpha chain, is also associated with the kinase JAK3 which triggers its signalling pathway. Recent single-cell analysis showed a seemingly paradoxical observation: increased availability of gamma chains reduces the IL-7 response. We describe two IL-7R mathematical models that provides an explanation for this inhibitory activity and shows that a balance between the IL-7R subunits is crucial for optimal signaling. Use of the Groebner basis provides analytical expressions for the maximum IL-7 response (or amplitude) and for the half maximal effective concentration (EC50) of our models. The results obtained inspired the study of a more general family of sequential models of receptor with extrinsic kinase.

algebraic geometrydynamical systemsprobability

Audience: researchers in the topic

( video )

---

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.

---