Sensitivity analysis of mathematical models of signaling pathways

Abstract

Modeling the dynamic behavior of signal transduction pathways is an important topic in systems biology. Mathematical models complement experimental technologies used to identify the molecular components and interactions in a system of interest. In this paper, we illustrate different types of mathematical approaches that are used to model signaling network behavior. Here, we review the basic methods of sensitivity analysis and apply them to the model of the system of membrane receptors. Four such receptors are considered: growth factor epidermal, low density lipoprotein, transferrin and vitellogenin receptor. We argue that application of sensitivity analysis methods provides an insight into how a signaling system controls the cell behavior.