Restoring information in aged gene regulatory networks by single knock-ins

TL;DR

This paper introduces a theoretical framework to assess how single gene perturbations can restore information in aged gene regulatory networks, demonstrated with mouse muscle cell data, suggesting potential rejuvenation strategies.

Contribution

It develops a simple theoretical model for information transmission in gene networks and applies it to aging data, showing single gene interventions can partially restore network information.

Findings

Single knock-ins can restore up to 10% of network information.

The framework links gene perturbations to information flow.

Potential gene targets for rejuvenation identified.

Abstract

A hallmark of aging is loss of information in gene regulatory networks. These networks are tightly connected, raising the question of whether information could be restored by perturbing single genes. We develop a simple theoretical framework for information transmission in gene regulatory networks that describes the information gained or lost when a gene is "knocked in" (exogenously expressed). Applying the framework to gene expression data from muscle cells in young and old mice, we find that single knock-ins can restore network information by up to 10%. Our work advances the study of information flow in networks and identifies potential gene targets for rejuvenation.