Extrinsic fluctuations in biological oscillators

What is it about?

This study employs an underexplored method to analyze extrinsic fluctuations in stochastic systems. By incorporating temperature fluctuations into reaction rates, the study examines extrinsic impacts on system dynamics. A master equation was constructed, and equations for the first two moments' dynamics were calculated, offering computational efficiency. This method was applied to a biological oscillator, specifically the p53 model, to assess its response to temperature-induced extrinsic fluctuations. Findings highlight that extrinsic fluctuations significantly influence oscillatory behavior, increasing the amplitude and frequency of the p53 concentration cycle.

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Why is it important?

Biological systems inherently exhibit fluctuations due to the stochastic nature of molecular interactions, affecting system behavior, stability, and robustness. These fluctuations can be intrinsic, derived from the system's structure and dynamics, or extrinsic, caused by external factors such as temperature variations. Understanding their interplay is essential for comprehending biological phenomena, though studying them presents computational challenges. This study provides insights into extrinsic fluctuations' effects on biological oscillations and underscores their importance in complex systems to mitigate health-related issues.