Principal Investigator Tomas Lozano-Perez
The principles of constraint satisfaction can also be applied to the analysis of network models. As complex network models for biomolecular systems are developed and validated, an important challenge is the creation and application of tools for interrogating them. The Lozano-Pérez group is developing methods for exploring broad sets of biological network configurations with mathematical optimization tools. The group strives to derive optimal parameters in biological models with respect to a particular mathematical criterion, such as minimal synthesis of protein or maximal robustness to changes in reaction rates. Since biological network analysis is a new area of research, the algorithms are still in early development stages. Availability of these tools will be critical in gaining a deeper understanding of the principles behind the construction of functional biological networks.