Integrative biological modelling in silico.
In silico models of biological systems provide a powerful tool for integrative analysis of physiological function. Using the computational models of the heart as examples, we discuss three types of integration: structural integration implies integration across physical scales of biological organization from protein molecule to whole organ; functional integration of interacting physiological processes such as signalling, metabolism, excitation and contraction; and the synthesis of experimental observation with physicochemical and mathematical principles.
McCulloch
Andrew D
AD
Department of Bioengineering, The Whitaker Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0412, USA.
Huber
Gary
G
D000818:Animals; D003198:Computer Simulation; D019992:Databases as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D008954:Models, Biological