A Software Tool for the Simulation and Analysis of Biochemical Networks
The aim of this interdisciplinary project is to model diverse biochemical networks and develop an associated computational system to facilitate the analysis of the behaviour of these networks. Biochemical pathways govern fundamental biological control networks; while individual pathways are understood, the combinatorial complexity of the biological control apparatus is too high to be fully understood through "wet" analysis alone.
We are developing innovative software tools that can faithfully simulate the behaviour of biochemical networks, focussing on programmed cell death (apoptosis) and growth factor activated kinase (MAPK). Both networks are at the focus of current drug discovery efforts in important disease areas including cancer, arteriosclerosis, stroke, heart disease, chronic inflammatory and degenerative diseases. The tools we are developing will facilitate basic research by enabling a deeper understanding of the effects of mutations, and applied research by helping to predict drug effects. A strategic aspect of this work is the continuous cross check between modelling and real experimental data.
Funding
Funding is for 3 researchers over 4 years at a total of £ 1,022,676 provided by the Department of Trade
and Industry under the Beacon scheme.
Studentships
Associated with this project are 2 Industrial PhD studentships funded by Scottish
Enterprise through their Biotechnology Programme. The two industiral hosts for these studentships are CXR Biosciences and Cyclacel. More information on the student projects can be found here.
Industry
This interdisciplinary project involves bioinformatics, biochemistry and computer science, with contributions from IBM and Definiens.
Launch
The project was launched on 20 November 2002 at an event organised by the DTI.
Project Presentation
Project presentation slideshow: PDF.
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