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Understanding the computational methodologies of systems biology
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The conventional approach to understanding biological systems and processes employs a largely static view of loosely coupled molecular and cellular elements. This contrasts with the basic understanding of a biologist that life is an inherently dynamic phenomenon. Similar to many other ontological concepts, a precise definition of systems biology may not be attainable for a long time [1]. However, there seems to be a consensus that systems biology will progressively complement the conventional mode of study by facilitating the understanding of biological networks and mechanisms in terms of their dynamic system behavior on different levels of organization. This new way of investigating living matter involves a tight coupling of mathematical modeling, computational analysis and simulation and biological experimentation.
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University of Ulster
Northern Ireland