Systems Biology [MIT OpenCourseware]

This course, taught in Fall 2004 by Prof. Alexander van Oudenaarden, introduces the mathematical modeling techniques needed to address key questions in modern biology.

An overview of modeling techniques in molecular biology and genetics, cell biology and developmental biology is covered. Key experiments that validate mathematical models are also discussed, as well as molecular, cellular, and developmental systems biology, bacterial chemotaxis, genetic oscillators, control theory and genetic networks, and gradient sensing systems. Additional specific topics include: constructing and modeling of genetic networks, lambda phage as a genetic switch, synthetic genetic switches, circadian rhythms, reaction diffusion equations, local activation and global inhibition models, center finding networks, general pattern formation models, modeling cell-cell communication, quorum sensing, and finally, models for Drosophila development.

Target audience: Graduate

Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Materials available: Problem sets or projects, Course outline or syllabus, Textbook recommendations, Downloadable code or data files

Products: MATLAB