Strengths of artificial neural networks in modelling complex plant processes

Abstract

Commonly, simple mathematical models can not be used to describe exactly the biological processes due to their higher complexity. In fact, most biological interactions cannot be elucidated by a simple stepwise algorithm or a precise formula, particularly when the data are complex or noisy. ANNs allows an accurate description of those kind of biological processes in plant science, offering new advantages over traditional treatments as the possibility of a model, prediction and optimize results. Different kind of data can be analyzed using a unique and easy to use technology. Researchers with a highly specialized mathematical background are not required and ANNs offer the possibility of achieving the whole view of the experimental study with a limited number of experiments and costs. Additionally, it is possible to add new inputs and outputs to the database to reach a new understanding. © 2010 Landes Bioscience.