I present a novel (well, in 2009 it was) modular, stochastic model for biological template-based linear chain elongation processes. In this model, elongation complexes (eg DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, or ribosomes associated with nascent chains) that span a finite number of template units step along the template, one after another, with semaphore constructs preventing overtaking. The central elongation module is readily extended with modules that represent initiation and termination processes. The model was used to explore the effect of elongation complex span on motor velocity and dispersion, and the effect of initiation activator and repressor binding kinetics on the overall elongation dynamics. The results demonstrate that (1) motors that move smoothly are able to travel at a greater velocity and closer together than motors that move more erratically, and (2) the rate at which completed chains are released is proportional to the occupancy or vacancy of activator or repressor binding sites only when initiation or activator/repressor dissociation is slow in comparison with elongation. If you think the above is a load of old hokum, do come to the talk for some more!

The associated paper:

Schilstra, MJ, and Nehaniv, CL
Stochastic model of template-directed elongation processes in biology
Biosystems 102, 55-60, 2010
doi: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2010.07.006
url: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0303264710001140

Date: 27/01/2017
Time: 16:00
Location: LB252