Charting a New Frontier Integrating Mathematical Modeling in Complex Biological Systems from Molecules to Ecosystems

Abstract

Advances in quantitative biology data collection and analysis across scales (molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological) have transformed how we understand, categorize, and predict complex biological systems. This surge of quantitative data creates an opportunity to apply, develop, and evaluate mathematical models of biological systems and explore novel methods of analysis. Simultaneously, thanks to increased computational power, mathematicians, engineers and physical scientists have developed sophisticated models of biological systems at different scales. Novel modeling schemes can offer deeper understanding of principles in biology, but there is still a disconnect between modeling and experimental biology that limits our ability to fully realize the integration of mathematical modeling and biology. In this work, we explore the urgent need to expand the use of existing mathematical models across biological scales, develop models that are robust to biological heterogeneity, harness feedback loops within the iterative modeling process, and nurture a cultural shift towards interdisciplinary and cross-field interactions. Better integration of biological experimentation and robust mathematical modeling will transform our ability to understand and predict complex biological systems.

Integrating theoretical and empirical approaches for a robust understanding of endocrine flexibility

“…Integrating mathematical modeling with future empirical studies can help us understand the mechanisms, evolution and adaptive value of endocrine flexibility. We promote the integration of mathematical modeling with studies of endocrine flexibility, echoing other recent calls for increased interdisciplinary efforts that merge theoretical modeling with biological research (White et al, 2021). We outline additional avenues for empirical research, potential modeling approaches, requirements for utilizing models and questions for which different approaches are best suited.…”