Open Regulatory Networks and Modularity

TL;DR

This paper investigates how small regulatory networks, modeled as open modules with external inputs, exhibit new functionalities based on their internal properties and input interactions, using discrete, piecewise models.

Contribution

It introduces a framework for analyzing open regulatory modules and their functionalities within larger networks using piecewise-affine models.

Findings

Identification of how external inputs influence module behavior

New insights into the functional capabilities of regulatory modules

Demonstration of the role of internal properties in network dynamics

Abstract

We study the dynamical properties of small regulatory networks treated as non autonomous dynamical systems called modules when working inside larger networks or, equivalently when subject to external signal inputs. Particular emphasis is put on the interplay between the internal properties of the open systems and the different possible inputs on them to deduce new functionalities of the modules. We use discrete-time, piecewise-affine and piecewise-contracting models with interactions of a regulatory nature to perform our study.