Open AccessA mathematical model of stem cell regeneration with epigenetic state transitions
Author(s) -
Qiaojun Situ,
Jinzhi Lei
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
mathematical biosciences and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.451
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1551-0018
pISSN - 1547-1063
DOI - 10.3934/mbe.2017071
Subject(s) - epigenetics , stem cell , regeneration (biology) , state (computer science) , cancer stem cell , biology , transition (genetics) , cell division , mathematics , statistical physics , cell , microbiology and biotechnology , physics , genetics , algorithm , gene
In this paper, we study a mathematical model of stem cell regeneration with epigenetic state transitions. In the model, the heterogeneity of stem cells is considered through the epigenetic state of each cell, and each epigenetic state defines a subpopulation of stem cells. The dynamics of the subpopulations are modeled by a set of ordinary differential equations in which epigenetic state transition in cell division is given by the transition probability. We present analysis for the existence and linear stability of the equilibrium state. As an example, we apply the model to study the dynamics of state transition in breast cancer stem cells.