Biological Modelling
Mathematical models of biological systems provide new knowledge. Calculations using powerful computers describe the complex interplay in everything from cells to entire ecosystems.
Several research groups at the University have been successful in developing and using modelling tools to study various biological systems. This area of research spans several departments and issues. In order to learn more about brain functions, researchers conduct advanced simulations of fundamental chemical reactions in enzymes and other biomolecules, the structure of different proteins, and nerve cell activity.
In biotechnology, an enormous amount of information on individual genes and proteins has been generated. The next phase is to better understand how they work together. At the Stockholm Bioinformatics Centre, the complex interplay between different genes and proteins is studied. A unique database has been developed that surveys how networks of these genes and proteins are interconnected. This research has identified new genes linked to cancer, Alzheimer's and other diseases.
Another successful area involves models for studying and understanding development over time in different species of animals. Why do some insects begin to mimic the appearance of other insects? What conditions control cooperation between species, for example, ants and aphids? Researchers in the field of biological modelling are involved in two of the government's strategic research initiatives – SciLifeLab for large-scale bioscience research on genes and proteins, and Ekoklim for research on scenarios for how ecosystems are affected by climate change.
Web editor:
Paul Parker
Last updated:
November 23, 2011
Source: Communications Office
