Topological analysis of metabolic networks based on Petri net theory.
Petri net concepts provide additional tools for the modelling of metabolic networks. Here, the similarities between the counterparts in traditional biochemical modelling and Petri net theory are discussed. For example the stoichiometry matrix of a metabolic network corresponds to the incidence matrix of the Petri net. The flux modes and conservation relations have the T-invariants, respectively, P-invariants as counterparts. We reveal the biological meaning of some notions specific to the Petri net framework (traps, siphons, deadlocks, liveness). We focus on the topological analysis rather than on the analysis of the dynamic behaviour. The treatment of external metabolites is discussed. Some simple theoretical examples are presented for illustration. Also the Petri nets corresponding to some biochemical networks are built to support our results. For example, the role of triose phosphate isomerase (TPI) in Trypanosoma brucei metabolism is evaluated by detecting siphons and traps. All Petri net properties treated in this contribution are exemplified on a system extracted from nucleotide metabolism.
Zevedei-Oancea
Ionela
I
Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Department of Bioinformatics Robert-Roessle-Str 10, 13092 Berlin-Buch, Germany.
Schuster
Stefan
S
D000465:Algorithms; D000818:Animals; D019295:Computational Biology; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006019:Glycolysis; D008432:Mathematical Computing; D008660:Metabolism; D008954:Models, Biological; D014305:Triose-Phosphate Isomerase / Q000378:metabolism; D014346:Trypanosoma brucei brucei / Q000378:metabolism
D014305:Triose-Phosphate Isomerase