Microcomputer-assisted kinetic modeling of mammalian gene expression.

New software for microcomputers enables predictive, quantitative models of genetic systems to be produced that can account for the elements of time, scale, and feedback control of hierarchical systems. The flow of genetic information during protein synthesis can be addressed by treating each intermediate as a kinetic element in a linked series of reactions. When the rate of transcription changes, the time required to achieve a new level of the encoded protein is expected to be a function of the conversion rates or half-lives of all intermediates. Kinetic modeling may be used to make predictions and integrate primary data concerning rates of transcription, nuclear mRNA dynamics, nucleocytoplasmic transport, translational control, and other processes that govern the rate of synthesis for specific proteins.