Robust Bifurcation Analysis for a Genetic Controller Design Problem for Cell Fate Control*

We propose a robustness analysis method for biomolecular controller design. First, we provide a computational method of bifurcation and robustness analysis for general nonlinear systems with dynamic uncertainties. We then apply the method to study a model that represents a genetic network system for controlling cell fates through external stimulus. In the network system, an artificial genetic controller is connected to the MAPK pathway. The proposed robust bifurcation method is used to determine design parameters of the controller for robustly achieving desired properties, in the presence of dynamic uncertainties.