A computational framework for the topological analysis and targeted disruption of signal transduction networks.
Abstract
In this article, optimization-based frameworks are introduced for elucidating the input-output structure of signaling networks and for pinpointing targeted disruptions leading to the silencing of undesirable outputs in therapeutic interventions. The frameworks are demonstrated on a large-scale reconstruction of a signaling network composed of nine signaling pathways implicated in prostate cancer. The Min-Input framework is used to exhaustively identify all input-output connections implied by the signaling network structure. Results reveal that there exist two distinct types of outputs in the signaling network that either can be elicited by many different input combinations or are highly specific requiring dedicated inputs. The Min-Interference framework is next used to precisely pinpoint key disruptions that negate undesirable outputs while leaving unaffected necessary ones. In addition to identifying disruptions of terminal steps, we also identify complex disruption combinations in upstream pathways that indirectly negate the targeted output by propagating their action through the signaling cascades. By comparing the obtained disruption targets with lists of drug molecules we find that many of these targets can be acted upon b...Continue Reading
References
Citations
A flood-based information flow analysis and network minimization method for gene regulatory networks
Related Concepts
Related Feeds
Apoptosis
Apoptosis is a specific process that leads to programmed cell death through the activation of an evolutionary conserved intracellular pathway leading to pathognomic cellular changes distinct from cellular necrosis
Angiogenesis Inhibitors to Treat Cancer
Cancer treatments including angiogenesis inhibitors prevent tumor cells from receiving nutrients and oxygen. Here is the latest research on angiogenesis inhibitors for the treatment of cancer.
Cancer Metabolism
In order for cancer cells to maintain rapid, uncontrolled cell proliferation, they must acquire a source of energy. Cancer cells acquire metabolic energy from their surrounding environment and utilize the host cell nutrients to do so. Here is the latest research on cancer metabolism.
Apoptosis in Cancer
Apoptosis is an important mechanism in cancer. By evading apoptosis, tumors can continue to grow without regulation and metastasize systemically. Many therapies are evaluating the use of pro-apoptotic activation to eliminate cancer growth. Here is the latest research on apoptosis in cancer.
Arterial-Venous in Development & Disease
Arterial-venous development may play a crucial role in cardiovascular diseases. Here is the latest research.