| Abstract: |
| Gene regulatory network in biology plays a critical role in achieving accurate biological functions. In this talk, I will start with exploration of the topologies for dual function networks by achieving both adaptation and noise attenuation. We show the three-node networks are not able to buffer noise while implementing a good adaptation due to the tradeoff. Thus, we construct a four-node network topology achieves dual functions, in which the fluctuation in input is dampen significantly in the upstream reactions and the downstream reactions accomplish the adaptive behavior. Secondly, I will present the dual role of Nanog during stem cell differentiation and reprogramming. The low-Nanog state enhances cell differentiation through serving as an intermediate state to reduce the energy barrier of transition. On the contrary, the existence of low stemness low-Nanog state will slow down the reprogramming process, and additional Nanog activation is revealed to be essential to attain fully reprogrammed cell state faster. |
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