Adaptive Dynamics of Regulatory Networks: Size Matters
2009
Adaptive Dynamics of Regulatory Networks: Size Matters
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Dirk Repsilber, Thomas Martinetz, Mats Björklund
Hypothesis
How does network size influence the evolutionary adaptability of regulatory networks?
Conclusion
Smaller regulatory networks adapt quickly but larger networks achieve better long-term adaptability depending on environmental conditions.
Supporting Evidence
- Small networks adapt quickly but have limited responses to environmental challenges.
- Larger networks can cope with more tasks but are slower to evolve.
- Optimal network size varies with environmental heterogeneity and time pressure of adaptation.
Takeaway
This study looks at how the size of networks in living organisms affects their ability to adapt to changes in their environment.
Methodology
The study used conceptual simulations to evaluate the evolutionary dynamics of regulatory networks of different sizes under varying environmental conditions.
Limitations
The study does not account for differences in costs for maintaining and running the networks.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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