Abstract

Computational systems biology is expected to make major contributions to unravel the complex molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of aging in cells, tissues, and organisms. The development of computational approaches is, however, challenged by a wide spectrum of aging mechanisms participating on different levels of biological organization. The tight connectivity between the molecular constituents, functions, and cell states requires frameworks and strategies that extend beyond current practice to model, simulate, and predict the progression of aging and the emerging aging phenotypes. We provide a general overview of the specific computational tasks and opportunities in aging research, and discuss some illustrative systems level concepts in more detail. One example provided here is the assembly of a conceptual whole cell model that considers the temporal dynamics of the aging process grounded on molecular mechanisms. Another application is the assembly of interactomes, such as protein networks that allow us to analyze changes in network topology and interaction of proteins that have been implicated in aging with other cellular constituents and processes. We introduce the necessary key steps to build these applications and discuss their merits and future extensions for aging research. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2011 3 414-428 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.126

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.