title: Comparing Boolean and piecewise affine differential models for genetic networks.
abstract: Multi-level discrete models of genetic networks, or the more general piecewise affine differential models, provide qualitative information on the dynamics of the system, based on a small number of parameters (such as synthesis and degradation rates). Boolean models also provide qualitative information, but are based simply on the structure of interconnections. To explore the relationship between the two formalisms, a piecewise affine differential model and a Boolean model are compared, for the carbon starvation response network in E. coli. The asymptotic dynamics of both models are shown to be quite similar. This study suggests new tools for analysis and reduction of biological networks.
authors.affiliation: INRIA, Project-Team COMORE, 2004 Route des Lucioles, BP 93, 06902 Sophia Antipolis, France. mchaves@sophia.inria.fr
authors.forename: Madalena
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Chaves
authors.forename: Laurent
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Tournier
authors.forename: Jean-Luc
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Gouzé
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D002244:Carbon / Q000378:metabolism; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation; D053263:Gene Regulatory Networks; D005798:Genes, Bacterial; D008957:Models, Genetic
chemical_list: D002244:Carbon