Modular Assembly of Cell Systems Biology Models Using P Systems

Abstract

In this paper we propose an extension of the modelling framework based on P systems which explicitly includes modularity. Modularisation in cellular systems can be produced by chemical specificity and spatial localisation in different compartments. Both these features can be easily specified and analysed in P systems using sets of rewriting rules to describe chemical specificity and membranes to represent spatial localisation. Our methodology enables the assembly of cell systems biology models by combining modules which represents functional subsystems. A case study consisting of a bacterial colony system is presented to illustrate our approach.