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A mathematical model for optimal functional disruption of biochemical networks

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<mark>Journal publication date</mark>03/2010
<mark>Journal</mark>Journal of Mathematical Modelling and Algorithms
Issue number1
Volume9
Number of pages19
Pages (from-to)19-37
Publication StatusPublished
Early online date7/11/09
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

Biochemical networks are a particular kind of biological networks which describe the cell metabolism and regulate various biological functions, from biochemical pathways to cell growth. The relationship between structure, function and regulation in complex cellular networks is still a largely open question. This complexity calls for proper mathematical models and methods relating network structure and functional properties. In this paper we focus on the problem of drug targets' identification by detecting network alteration strategies which lead to a cell functionality loss. We propose a mathematical model, based on a bi-level programming formulation, to obtain the minimum cost disruption policy through the identification of specific gene deletions. These deletions represent drug target identification of new drug treatments for hindering bacterial infections.