Network Biology: Methods and Applications

Description

While extremely large datasets describing gene sequences, mRNA transcripts, protein abundance, and metabolite concentrations are increasingly commonplace, these represent only starting ‘parts lists’ that are usually insufficient to unlock mechanistic insights on their own right. Fortunately, as Network Biology: Methods and Applications examines, concepts emerging from the study of biological entities such as networks (e.g. functional interactions linking genes, proteins, metabolites, etc.) suggest that order rather than chaos prevails, with such principles as modular and hierarchical organization, reactive information-driven causal-response behaviours, systems robustness, co-evolution, and self-organization guiding the way. This volume presents detailed, practical descriptions of the experimental and computational approaches currently prevalent in network biology as written by practiced experts in the field. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology™ series format, relevant chapters contain introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and accessible, Network Biology: Methods and Applications provides an ensemble of procedures that will be of great value to a broad assortment of readers, ranging from graduate students to seasoned professionals looking to polish their skill sets.