Introduction to Focus Issue: Nonlinear science of living systems: From cellular mechanisms to functions

Abstract

Living systems are complex, inherently nonlinear, subject to various kinds of interactions, with internal and external fluctuations. Studies of these systems are conducted on diverse hierarchical levels, invariably crosscutting several disciplines. Life sciences and what is collectively called nonlinear science mutually benefit from each other, e.g., by formulating interesting and significant problems, uncovering universal dynamic principles, and providing advanced analysis methods. In this Chaos Focus Issue, we combine articles with an attempt to present a breadth of applications of nonlinear science to systems and phenomena on different levels, from intracellular communication and single cell dynamics to communication within large, networked populations of biological entities.