Tim Elston : Models and methods for studying cell movement
- CGTP Group Meeting Seminar ( 253 Views )Most cells possess the ability to change morphology or migrate in response
to environmental cues. To understand the molecular mechanisms that drive
cell movement requires a systems-level approach that combines computational
approaches, including mathematical modeling and image analysis tools, with
high-resolution microscopy of living cells. Here we present several
examples for how such an integrated research strategy has been
successfully applied. First, we combine stochastic modeling with novel
biosensors for monitoring the spatiotemporal dynamics of Rho GTPase
activity to investigate the role of RhoG in cell polarization and
migration. Next, mathematical modeling and quantitative image analysis
methods are used to establish the role of cerebral cavernous malformation
(CCM) proteins in vascular tube formation. Finally, we present a novel
computational method for tracking and quantifying changes in cell shape.
Linda Petzold : CANCELED: The Emerging Roles and Computational Challenges of Stochasticity in Biological Systems
- CGTP Group Meeting Seminar ( 241 Views )******* CANCELED ****************** In recent years it has become increasingly clear that stochasticity plays an important role in many biological processes. Examples include bistable genetic switches, noise enhanced robustness of oscillations, and fluctuation enhanced sensitivity or Â?stochastic focusing".. Numerous cellular systems rely on spatial stochastic noise for robust performance. We examine the need for stochastic models, report on the state of the art of algorithms and software for modeling and simulation of stochastic biochemical systems, and identify some computational challenges.
Marty Golubitsky : Animal Gaits and Symmetries of Periodic Solutions
- CGTP Group Meeting Seminar ( 208 Views )The interface between the mathematical sciences and the biosciences is two-way and may be summarized as "math -> bio" and "bio -> math." This talk will have two parts. First, I will describe previous work on gaits of four-legged animals (based on distinguishing gaits, such as walk, trot, and pace, by their spatio-temporal symmetries). Second, I will discuss how the application to gaits has led to results about phase-shift synchrony in periodic solutions of coupled systems of differential equations.
Marc Ryser : HPV and cervical cancer: a stochastic model at tissue level
- CGTP Group Meeting Seminar ( 191 Views )Infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a prerequisite for the development of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women in the developing world. While about 80% of women get infected with HPV during their lifetime, most clear the virus within 2 years. However, if the infection persists, further cellular events can lead to high-grade lesions and eventually invasive carcinoma. To date, various aspects of the carcinogenesis remain poorly understood at the cellular level. In this talk, we develop and discuss a stochastic model of the cervical epithelium, coupling the dynamics of HPV infection to a multi-stage model of carcinogenesis.