Dynamics of hydroxide-ion-driven reversible autocatalytic networks
Emese Lantos (University of Szeged)
Gergő Mótyán (University of Szeged)
Éva Frank (University of Szeged)
R. Eelkema (TU Delft - ChemE/Advanced Soft Matter)
Jan H. Van Esch (TU Delft - ChemE/Advanced Soft Matter)
Dezső Horváth (University of Szeged)
Ágota Tóth (University of Szeged)
More Info
expand_more
Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.
Abstract
In living systems adaptive regulation requires the presence of nonlinear responses in the underlying chemical networks. Positive feedbacks, for example, can lead to autocatalytic bursts that provide switches between two stable states or to oscillatory dynamics. The stereostructure stabilized by hydrogen bonds provides an enzyme its selectivity, rendering pH regulation essential for its functioning. For effective control, triggers by small concentration changes play roles where the strength of feedback is important. Here we show that the interaction of acid-base equilibria with simple reactions with pH-dependent rate can lead to the emergence of a positive feedback in hydroxide ion concentration during the hydrolysis of some Schiff bases in the physiological pH range. The underlying reaction network can also support bistability in an open system.
help_outline