Complex networks: the key to systems biology

Genetics and Molecular Biology

Luciano Da F. Costa¹  Francisco A. Rodrigues¹  Alexandre S. Cristino¹ 

[1] ,Universidade de São Paulo Instituto de Física de São Carlos São Carlos SP ,Brazil

关键词: bioinformatics;    complex networks;    metabolic networks;    protein-protein networks;    systems biology;    transcription networks;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S1415-47572008000400001

来源: SciELO

【 摘 要 】

Though introduced recently, complex networks research has grown steadily because of its potential to represent, characterize and model a wide range of intricate natural systems and phenomena. Because of the intrinsic complexity and systemic organization of life, complex networks provide a specially promising framework for systems biology investigation. The current article is an up-to-date review of the major developments related to the application of complex networks in biology, with special attention focused on the more recent literature. The main concepts and models of complex networks are presented and illustrated in an accessible fashion. Three main types of networks are covered: transcriptional regulatory networks, protein-protein interaction networks and metabolic networks. The key role of complex networks for systems biology is extensively illustrated by several of the papers reviewed.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
 All the contents of this journal, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License