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International Conference on Mathematical Biology and

Annual Meeting of The Society for Mathematical Biology,

July 27-30, 2009

University of British Columbia, Vancouver

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Program

CTD7b
Rachel Bearon
University of Liverpool
Title Understanding the NF-κB cell pathway: a paradigm for systems biology
Abstract A systems biology approach is required to make a step change in understanding how cells function, whereby state-of-the-art experimental methods are combined with novel modelling and theoretical analysis. Such scientific progress is currently being undertaken using the Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway as a model system. This important transcription factor regulates cellular stress responses and the immune response to infection. Real-time fluorescence imaging of single cells and mathematical modelling have shown that the activity of the NF-κB system can be oscillatory (1). Furthermore, deterministic and stochastic mathematical models predicted how negative feedback loops regulate both the resetting of the system and cellular heterogeneity (2). We demonstrate that integrated interdisciplinary research results in significant jumps in scientific understanding, and improved training opportunities for early career scientists. 1. D. E. Nelson et al., Science 306, 704 (2004). 2. L. Ashall et al., Science 324, 242 (2009).
CoauthorsL. Ashall, P. Paszek, M.R.H. White.
LocationCHBE 102