Yue-Xian Li
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Welcome to Yue-Xian Li's Web Page
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Research in Mathematical Cell Physiology
General introduction
Modern biotechnology makes it possible to measure variations of crucial indicators
of living cells in real time. These indicators include the difference of electrical potential
across cellular membranes and the concentration of calcium ions
in the intracellular space. These measurements have revealed amazingly complex
dynamic patterns.
These patterns include oscillations, waves, and stationary spatial structures that
are highly nonlinear and are essential for the normal functioning of a cell.
Mathematical models have been shown an important tool
in explaining and understanding these dynamical phenomena.
My research is to develop and analyse mathematical models
of these phenomena based on experimentally established mechanisms.
Major research topics
I. Calcium signalling in neuroendocrine cells.
This research is about
modelling how different types of oscillatory calcium signals can be generated
in secretory cells that are electrically excitable: the pituitary gland cells.
(The main function of these cells are to secrete hormones in response to hormonal signals
from secretory neurons in the hypothalamus.) Calcium signals are crucial for the secretory
function of these cells.
II. Fertilization calcium waves in oocytes.
This research is about modelling the origin of fertilization
calcium waves and the roles of intracellular stores inlcuding mitochondria in these
waves. In particular, it is also about the analysis of a novel wave phenomenon:
the tango waves that I recently discovered in a model of fertilization calcium waves.
III. Synchrony in neuroendocrine cells and rhythmogenesis in
hormonal signals.
This is about how synchrony occurs between neighoring pituitary cells and about
how secretory neurons in the hypothalamus synchronize in generating pulsatile/rhythmic
hormonal signals.
For MITACS-related research see
MITACS
Teaching in Year 2009-2010:
Differential Calculus for Life Sciences (Winter 2009)
Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos (Spring 2010)
Associated sites at UBC:
Mathematical Biology at UBC,
Institute of Applied Mathematics,
Mathematics Department,
Zoology Department