Variability in the budding yeast cell cycle: single cell experiments and stochastic network models. The variability within a clonal population of budding yeast is often larger than the variability associated with genetic differences. Fluctuations, presumably due to the low numbers of mRNA of several key cell cycle regulators, go unnoticed in datasets produced by studying aggregate contents of a population of cells. Only through single cell in vivo studies does such variation become apparent. Although the scale of variability on the single cell level and the fitness cost associated with disordered progression through the cell cycle suggest that cells are adapted to cope with molecular fluctuations, the mechanisms employed are currently unknown. With my mathematical expertise and the experimental capabilities of Fred Cross' yeast biology lab at the Rockefeller University we are well poised to tackle this question.
I aim to use time series of fluorescent markers of key cell cycle regulators from single cell experiments to design a new stochastic network model of the G1/S transition responsible for size control in budding yeast. Close collaboration with experimental biologists will allow for rapid integration of new data and for theory to influence experimental design. ? ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32GM078769-02
Application #
7265271
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F05-J (20))
Program Officer
Haynes, Susan R
Project Start
2006-07-15
Project End
2008-07-14
Budget Start
2007-07-15
Budget End
2008-07-14
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2007
Total Cost
$48,796
Indirect Cost
Name
Rockefeller University
Department
Social Sciences
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
071037113
City
New York
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
10065
Skotheim, Jan M; Di Talia, Stefano; Siggia, Eric D et al. (2008) Positive feedback of G1 cyclins ensures coherent cell cycle entry. Nature 454:291-6