Linear Response Theory of Evolved Metabolic Systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a universal linear response framework for predicting cellular metabolic states, applicable across diverse systems, using principles from microeconomic theory and mass conservation laws.

Contribution

It derives a universal linear relationship linking metabolic responses to nutrient and inhibition conditions, independent of specific system details.

Findings

The relationship is supported by extensive numerical calculations.

It provides quantitative predictions without prior detailed knowledge of systems.

Applicable to arbitrary metabolic systems obeying mass conservation laws.

Abstract

Predicting cellular metabolic states is a central problem in biophysics. Conventional approaches, however, sensitively depend on the microscopic details of individual metabolic systems. In this Letter, we derived a universal linear relationship between the metabolic responses against nutrient conditions and metabolic inhibition, with the aid of a microeconomic theory. The relationship holds in arbitrary metabolic systems as long as the law of mass conservation stands, as supported by extensive numerical calculations. It offers quantitative predictions without prior knowledge of systems.