Simulating the flipping of genetic switches and other rare events

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

Simulating the flipping of genetic switches and other rare events

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 9th May 2005
  • Speaker: Rosalind Allen (AMOLF)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

The functioning of cells is controlled by networks of chemical reactions that are usually out of equilibrium. Genetic switches are examples of such networks that are bistable, showing rare stochastic flips between alternative steady states. Studying these flips using simulation is difficult because of their rarity. We have developed a method that generates transition paths for rare events in non-equilibrium stochastic simulations. We have used this method to study models of genetic switches. It can also be applied to many other simulations of rare events.

About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars

This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..

Find out more about Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars.