Modeling of negative autoregulated genetic networks in single cells

We discuss recent developments in the modeling of negative autoregulated genetic networks. In particular, we consider the temporal evolution of the population of mRNA and proteins in simple networks using rate equations. In the limit of low copy numbers, fluctuation effects become significant and more adequate modeling is then achieved using the master equation formalism. The analogy between regulatory gene networks and chemical reaction networks on dust grains in the interstellar medium is discussed. The analysis and simulation of complex reaction networks are also considered. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.