Title:  Topics in Mathematical Cell Biology: Cell polarity, embryogenesis, and central nervous system regeneration

Abstract:  I will give an overview of my work in mathematical cell biology.  First I will discuss topics related to polarity, specifically in the context of cell movement.  This and numerous other cell functions require identification a “front” and “back” (e.g. polarity).   In some cases this can form spontaneously and in others sufficiently large stimuli are required.  I will discuss a mechanistic theory for how cells might transition between these behaviors by modulating their sensitivity to external stimuli.  In order to address this and analyze the models being presented, I will describe a new bifurcation technique, the Local Perturbation Analysis, for analyzing complex, spatial biochemical networks.

Additionally, I will discuss work related to early development of the mammalian embryo.  A vital first step in this process is the formation of an early placenta prior to implantation.  I will discuss a stochastic model of this spatial patterning event and show that systemic noise, rather than being a hindrance, is vital to the functioning of this process.  Time permitting I will also describe modeling of central nervous system regeneration after injury or disease.  In particular, I will discuss how individual cell behaviors can be controlled (either naturally or through therapeutic means) to optimize the regeneration response.

A reception will be held at 3:30 p.m. in POT 745.