Fluctuations and cooperativity in molecular recognition and development (C01)

• Subject Area: Statistical Physics, Nonlinear Dynamics, Complex Systems, Soft and Fluid Matter, Biological Physics
• Term: since 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 200049484

Here we aim at exposing the primordial roles of fluctuations and cooperativity in chosen biological systems. Based on thermal fluctuations we explained why among similar oligonucleotide targets in competition for binding to the same partners, one type of strand can be strongly favored, creating asymmetry cooperatively. We find that similar phenomena occur regarding similar amino acids as part of the translation apparatus. We address fluctuations of cell differentiation driving embryonic symmetry-breaking in hydra. We aim at understanding how the fluctuations link to mechanical (osmotic) stimulation of the cytoskeleton.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1027: Physical Modelling of Non-Equilibrium Processes in Biological Systems
• Applicant Institution: Universität des Saarlandes
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Albrecht Ott