'In Silico' Simulation of Biological Processes (PDF)

Over recent decades vast amounts of biological data have been
accumulated. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to
apply traditional theoretical methods to the formulation of
coherent pictures of cell and organ function because it is no
longer possible for a human theorist to integrate all of the
available information. Instead, computer technologies must now be
used to perform this integration. This book brings together
contributions from many different fields to summarize the current
status of computer-assisted modelling of biological processes.

The initial chapters deal with fundamental developments in
hardware, software and mathematics that underlie current approaches
to biological modelling. Next, different approaches to collating
data on gene structure and function are presented. These databases
form a vital resource for any investigator trying to construct an
integrated picture of particular biological systems.

Cell signalling systems form a particularly complicated aspect
of all cellular function and are important both in the
understanding of basic cellular processes and in selecting targets
for drugs. Recent approaches to integrating data on cell signalling
into computer models are covered. Further chapters build on these
approaches to show how computerized models of intact cells can be
developed. Finally, approaches to the computer modelling of whole
organs such as the heart are presented. The role of computer
modelling in drug design is the subject of the final chapter and is
also touched on throughout the discussions.