Computational Systems Biology: Discrete Models of Gene Regulation Networks

This article describes a 2-3 day workshop offered at regional undergraduate teaching institutions and high schools. Its goal is to use discrete dynamic models, in particular Boolean networks, to illustrate mathematical modeling of biological networks, such as gene regulatory networks, to a broad audience that can include undergraduate faculty, undergraduate students, high school teachers, and even high school students. The workshop covers the basics of biology, mathematical modeling, and model analysis, using the wellknown lac operon network in E coli as a model system. The workshop materials can be used independently or as one or several modules in a college or high school class. Supplementary materials are available at admg.vbi.vt.edu/home/Outreach/Workshops/2.