Current students

This thesis attempts to model the RNA delivery process to the Hela cells, an immortal cell line used in scientific research. We aim to validate the model with our experimental results obtained in the laboratory on RNA transfections. To model the process, we take advantage of stochastic hybrid systems, a solid mathematical framework to investigate dynamic systems that inherit both stochastic and deterministic behaviour. To ensure the model accuracy, it is used to predict the cytotoxicity and transfection efficiency. After acquiring the model, by using the communication theory, we bring the gene delivery process into the context of a telecommunication process and make the equivalent model. Thus, the new communication model can be analyzed with the help of strong theories that have been investigated already, such as Information Theory and Queueing Theory. Thanks to these theories, we obtain a better understanding of the process, and we can improve the process efficiency during assays. The improvement is achieved by defining a cost function that is a function of channel capacity, noise, data rate, loss, and quality. All these telecommunication terminologies have their own counterparts in the biological process. In the end, we achieve a reliable model and improve the RNA transfection efficiency according to the theoretical improvement resulted from communication theories.