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Stochastic thermodynamics for biological functions
Yuansheng Cao1, Shiling Liang2
1Department of Physics Tsinghua University Beijing China.
Quantitative Biology (Beijing, China)
|February 12, 2026
Summary
This review explores how nonequilibrium thermodynamics and stochastic thermodynamics provide fundamental insights into biological functions. We examine the interplay of kinetics and energetics in molecular machines, error correction, sensing, and collective behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Physics and Biology Interface
- Thermodynamics in Biological Systems
Background:
- Living systems are governed by physical laws, specifically nonequilibrium thermodynamics.
- Understanding biological functions requires considering these thermodynamic constraints.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in applying nonequilibrium thermodynamics to biological functions.
- To introduce stochastic thermodynamics and its applications in biology.
- To foster a quantitative understanding of biological processes from a physics perspective.
Main Methods:
- Introduction to the framework of stochastic thermodynamics.
- Application of thermodynamic principles to diverse biological systems.
- Analysis of kinetics and energetics within network topology.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of interconnectedness between kinetics and energetics.
- Models showing how network topology, kinetics, and energetics influence biological functions.
- Examples across molecular machines, error correction, biological sensing, and collective behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Nonequilibrium thermodynamics offers a powerful lens for studying biological limits.
- Stochastic thermodynamics provides a quantitative framework for biological analysis.
- Bridging physics and biology enhances our understanding of life's fundamental operations.
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