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 Mathematical Biology seminar
 
 Ron Siegel
 University of Minnesota
 "Modeling of Rhythmic Drug and Hormone Delivery"
 October 27
 3:05pm in LCB 225
 
 In order to meet the need for an implantable hormone delivery system
that releases gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) in rhythmic
pulses, we have constructed a hydrogel/enzyme system whose swelling,
and hence permeability to GnRH, oscillates autonomously when fueled by
constant levels of glucose. The system exhibits limit cycle-type
behavior, due to an unstable negative feedback between an enzyme
reaction, and a hysteretic phase transition exhibited by the
hydrogel. We will present a lumped model of this system, which
reproduces some of the observed behaviors. In addition, we will
discuss a preliminary model for the optimization of drug delivery for
drugs that exhibit tolerance.
 
 
 
 
 
For more information contact J. Keener,  1-6089
E-mail:
keener@math.utah.edu 
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