This book defines and examines Systems Biology as the understanding of biological network behaviors, and in particular their dynamic aspects, which requires the utilization of mathematical modeling tightly linked to experiment. This involves a variety of approaches, including the identification and validation of networks, the creation of appropriate datasets, the development of tools for data acquisition and software development, and the use of modeling and simulation software in close concert with experiment. All of these are discussed in this volume.

The U.S. is currently ahead of the rest of the world in systems biology research, as evidenced by its large number of active research groups, educational programs, and a diverse and growing funding base. This is due to earlier investment by funding organizations and research institutions. However, there is evidence of rapid development outside the U.S., much of it begun in the last two to three years. Overall, the picture is of an active global field in the early stages of explosive growth.

This volume is aimed at academic researchers, government research agency representatives and graduate students.