Synchronization of fractional-order gene regulatory networks mediated by miRNA with time delays and unknown parameters.

To investigate the regulatory function of miRNA on gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, the synchronization of fractional-order gene regulatory networks (FOGRNs) mediated by miRNA with time delays and unknown parameters is explored. First, a more realistic gene regulatory network model mediated by miRNA with leakage, time-varying delays and unknown parameters is established. Second, the feedback controllers and parameter adaptive laws are designed to induce synchronization and identify unknown parameters. Third, some synchronization conditions are presented and the unknown parameters are accurately identified by using the designed feedback controllers, the parameter adaptive laws and the constructed Lyapunov function. It is found that the smaller the value of the fractional order, the longer it takes to synchronize, and it takes more time to complete the identification of the unknown parameters. Finally, MATLAB simulations are given to verify the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]