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Feedbacks, nonlinearities and nonequilibria: A thermodynamic perspective.

G Nicolis1, S C Nicolis1

  • 1Interdisciplinary Center for Nonlinear Phenomena and Complex Systems, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Campus Plaine, CP 231 bd du Triomphe, Brussels 1050, Belgium.

Journal of Theoretical Biology
|September 3, 2018
PubMed
Summary

Positive feedback circuits in nonlinear systems require specific thermodynamic conditions to operate. Exceeding critical feedback strengths is necessary for complex behaviors like multiple steady states in these dynamical systems.

Keywords:
AutocatalysisEntropy productionFeedback circuitsMultistabilityNonlinear dynamics

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Area of Science:

  • Thermodynamics
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Systems Biology

Background:

  • The feedback circuit approach is a key method for studying nonlinear dynamical systems.
  • Understanding the role of thermodynamic constraints is crucial for analyzing system behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To revisit the feedback circuit approach from a thermodynamic perspective.
  • To analyze the influence of nonequilibrium conditions and constraints on positive feedback circuits.

Main Methods:

  • Thermodynamical analysis of feedback circuits.
  • Investigation of mass action kinetics and microscopic reversibility.
  • Examination of systems under nonequilibrium conditions.

Main Results:

  • Non-trivial steady-state and time-dependent behaviors emerge when feedback loop strengths surpass critical values.
  • Prototypical systems exhibiting multiple steady states are illustrated.
  • The analysis highlights the necessity of exceeding critical feedback strengths for complex dynamics.

Conclusions:

  • Thermodynamic principles are essential for understanding the behavior of nonlinear dynamical systems with feedback circuits.
  • Exceeding critical feedback strengths is a fundamental requirement for observing complex behaviors in these systems.
  • The study provides a framework for analyzing feedback circuits under various thermodynamic constraints.