SYSTEMS DISSECTION OF SPATIAL ORGANIZATION OF THE RAS SIGNALLING MACHINERY

Abstract

Ras proteins which are key regulators for numerous biological processes had been under rigorous study over the past four decades. The research in this field focused on experimental investigation and lacked the evaluation of the phenomena mathematically. After acquiring these large pool of experimental data, mathematical models were built. Making this study a first of its kind, especially because of the unique approach it entailed. This was successfully accomplished by the construct of mathematical models on the virtual cell platform. The uniqueness of this study was that it evaluated the dynamical system in 2-D. It focused on studying and assessing the ras protein by understanding its compartmentalization and trafficking inside the cell. Additionally, the models were built to consider the differential localisation of the different ras isoforms. The study found that each isoform could be treated as a distinct specie under specific conditions. It highlighted the cytosol as having the biggest effect on the system, when evaluating the geometrical effects. Also, the importance of identifying the exact transport mechanism between organelles. Lastly, it showcased how enzymes can be utilized to manipulate the flow and distribution of ras throughout the cell. The study was concluded with numerous suggestions for further advancements in the field of ras modelling.