Economics of periodic enzyme activities


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Loop pathway (fast adaptation)

The model describes a loop of enzymatic reactions with mass-action kinetics. A substrate is fed into the loop, and a product leaves the loop two reactions later. The model can be seen as a schematic version of the TCA cycle. The forward and reverse rate constants are set to values of 1. The benefit function scores the average rate of product production. Autonomous waves of enzyme activity (without an external substrate rhythm) can increase the product production rate and are thus beneficial. (Legend: squares represent enzymes, circles represent metabolites)

Substrate rhythm without enzyme adaptation Spontaneous enzyme rhythm without a substrate rhythm

Results (.pdf)