Network motifs are patterns of interconnected nodes within a network of graph-theoretic structure They are networks of small groups of strongly interconnected nodes, which are highly represented in real-world networks. A network motif can provide insights into how different nodes interact or influence each other. This is useful when trying to understand how certain phenomena, such as brain activity or the movement of goods, occurs. Network motifs have been linked to efficient information transfer, the structure of DNA, and the emergence of life.
Five of the best examples of network motifs are as follows:
1. The feed-forward loop (FFL): This is a pattern in which an input node sends a signal to an output node through an intermediate node. The signal from the input is amplified by the intermediate node, which then sends a signal to the output. The FFL is commonly found in regulatory networks, and it can be used to better understand the regulation of biological processes.
2. The bi-fan: A bi-fan is a pattern in which two nodes are connected to one another, with one node sending a signal to the other node. This is often seen in social networks, where two nodes are connected in such a way that the signal is sent and shared between them.
3. The feed-forward cascade: This is a pattern in which one node sends a signal to a second node, which in turn sends a signal to a third node. This is often seen in neural networks, where the signals travel through multiple neurons to produce a response.
4. The star: A star is a pattern in which one single node is connected to multiple other nodes. It is often seen in communication networks, where a single node acts as the hub for the network.
5. The hub and spoke: This is a pattern in which there is a central node that is connected to other nodes. It is often seen in airline networks, where a hub airport is connected to many other airports.
These five network motifs are examples of the patterns that can be found in many real-world networks. They provide insight into the structure of the networks, and how nodes interact and influence each other. This information can be used to better understand how certain phenomena occur.