Epigene Networks: Theory, Models, and Experiment

Abstract

The article describes a concept of epigene networks that attempts to clarify the phenomenon of heredity and presents the results of long-term studies of the control gene and epigene networks in which the authors used an integrative approach with the tools of mathematical biology, cybernetics, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics. Epigene networks are control gene networks with epigenetic properties or those containing epigenes. By epigene, we mean special hereditary units with at least two modes of functioning of the genes subordinate to them that are capable of maintaining each of the modes in a successive series of generations. Epigenes are the units of functional hereditary memory; they perform a special role in ontogeny and phylogeny. Epigenetic systems can be designed and synthesized experimentally. One such systems is a two-component, stationary epigene with specified and controlled inherited dynamic properties that functions in vivo. Artificial epigenetic constructions can serve as models of the mechanisms of differentiation and cellular memory and can be used as bacterial biosensors. The generalized threshold models of natural and synthetic molecular genetic systems for the control of gene expression have both analytical and predictive value.