ABSTRACT

This chapter first defines systems biology as the integrative studies of biological phenomena within their natural context by addressing systemic questions. These questions, within the context of engineering-medicine, are very complicated and involved multidisciplinary perspectives, necessitating the use of mathematical models and powerful computer simulations. Both the advantages and limitations of mathematical models are discussed followed by a review of the most essential modeling tools. Calculus, linear algebra, and probability form the most important foundations. Laplace transform greatly enhances the ability to analyze generalized time-domain systems. Fourier transform is particularly suited for the analyses of physiological signals, which tend to be cyclical. Computational tools such as XPPAUT and MATLAB open the possibilities of analyzing vastly complicated systemic problems. The chapter concludes with a discussion on homeostasis, in which the human body as one interconnected and integrated system exhibiting a central organizing principle that unifies all physiological activities.