Mathematical modeling in metal metabolism: overview and perspectives

Biochimie. 2009 Oct;91(10):1238-54. doi: 10.1016/j.biochi.2009.06.019. Epub 2009 Jul 9.

Abstract

A review of mathematical modeling in metal metabolism is presented. Both endogenous and exogenous metals are considered. Four classes of methods are considered: Petri nets, multi-agent systems, determinist models based on differential equations and stochastic models. For each, a basic theoretical background is given, then examples of applications are given, detailed and commented. Advantages and disadvantages of each class of model are presented. A special attention is given to determinist differential equation models, since almost all models belong to this class.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Metals / metabolism*
  • Models, Theoretical*

Substances

  • Metals