Coupled feedback loops form dynamic motifs of cellular networks.
Cellular networks are composed of complicated interconnections among components, and some subnetworks of particular functioning are often identified as network motifs. Among such network motifs, feedback loops are thought to play important dynamical roles. Intriguingly, such feedback loops are very often found as a coupled structure in cellular circuits. Therefore, we integrated all the scattered information regarding the coupled feedbacks in various cellular circuits and investigated the dynamical role of each coupled structure. Finally, we discovered that coupled positive feedbacks enhance signal amplification and bistable characteristics; coupled negative feedbacks realize enhanced homeostasis; coupled positive and negative feedbacks enable reliable decision-making by properly modulating signal responses and effectively dealing with noise.
Kim
Jeong-Rae
JR
Department of Bio and Brain Engineering and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
Yoon
Yeoin
Y
Cho
Kwang-Hyun
KH
D025461:Feedback, Physiological; D006706:Homeostasis; D053858:Metabolic Networks and Pathways; D008954:Models, Biological; D013997:Time Factors