TBI 02-pks-003
Networks in Molecular Evolution
02-pks-003
Abstract:
Networks in Molecular Evolution
[PostScript]
[PDF]
Peter Schuster, Peter F. Stadler
Networks are a common theme at all levels of molecular
evolution: Networks of metastable states and their connecting
saddle points determine structure and folding kinetics of
biopolymers. Neutral networks in sequence space explain the
evolvability of both nucleic acids and polypeptides by linking
Darwinian selection with neutral drift. Interacting replicators,
be they simple molecules or highly complex mammals, form intricate
ecological networks that are crucial for their survival. Chemical
reactions are collected in extensive metabolic networks by means
of specific enzymes; both the enzymes and the chemical reaction
network that they govern undergoes evolutionary changes. Networks
of gene regulation, protein-protein interaction, and cell
signaling form the physico-chemical basis for morphogenesis and
development. The nervous systems of higher animals form another
distinct level of network architecture. We are beginning to
understand the structure and function of each of the individual
levels in some detail. Yet, their interplay largely remains still
in the dark.
Keywords:
conformational diversity, metabolic networks, molecular evolution,
neutral networks, sequence space.
Return to 2002 working papers list.