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In this essay we illustrate some general principles of mathematical modeling in biology by our experiences in studying the molecular regulatory network underlying eukaryotic cell division. We discuss how and why the models moved from simple, parsimonious cartoons to more complex, detailed mechanisms with many kinetic parameters. We describe how the mature models made surprising and informative predictions about the control system that were later confirmed experimentally. Along the way, we comment on the 'parameter estimation problem' and conclude with an appeal for a greater role for mathematical models in molecular cell biology.

Original publication

DOI

10.1186/s12915-015-0158-9

Type

Journal article

Journal

BMC Biol

Publication Date

01/07/2015

Volume

13

Keywords

Cell Cycle, Cell Division, Eukaryotic Cells, Models, Biological, Signal Transduction