Getting Started in Mathematical Life Sciences: From MATLAB Programming to Computer Simulations

This book provides a practical introduction to mathematical biology using the programming language MATLAB. It covers basic programming concepts, differential equation solving, and applying mathematical models to biological phenomena such as diabetes, infectious diseases, and heartbeats. The book includes embedded MATLAB codes and focuses on the mathematical model of the proneural wave, a brain phenomenon important for neuronal differentiation. It is ideal for readers with a biological background who want to learn and practice mathematical biology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book is designed to empower readers with the ability to utilize mathematical models to understand and analyze biological phenomena, beginning with fundamental programming and computer simulation skills. By employing computer simulations based on mathematical models, researchers can uncover novel biological mechanisms and predict previously unknown biological events. The field of mathematical biology holds immense potential for advancing modern life sciences, yet many biologists lack expertise in mathematics and computer science. Consequently, educational programs that seamlessly integrate biology, mathematics, and computer science are rare. While published books on mathematical biology often provide theoretical explanations of established mathematical models, they often fail to offer practical guidance on how to solve the differential equations involved or develop models that accurately capture specific phenomena of interest.

Fortunately, MATLAB emerges as an ideal programming platform for beginners in computer science. This book takes a step-by-step approach, guiding readers from the basics of writing programming code in MATLAB (or Octave) to solving ordinary and partial differential equations and applying mathematical models to diverse biological phenomena, including diabetes, infectious diseases, and heartbeats. Some of these models are original creations specifically developed for this book. By integrating MATLAB codes throughout the text, readers can easily follow along and grasp the concepts. In the final chapter, the book delves into the mathematical model of the proneural wave, a phenomenon crucial for ensuring the sequential differentiation of neurons in the brain. This model was previously published as a paper from the authors' laboratory and is extensively explained in the book's chapter titled "Notch Signaling in Embryology and Cancer."

In conclusion, this book serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to bridge the gap between biology and mathematics. By providing a comprehensive introduction to programming and computer simulation, as well as practical applications in mathematical biology, it empowers readers to unlock the secrets of biological phenomena and contribute to the advancement of life sciences. Whether you are a biologist, mathematician, or computer scientist, this book offers valuable insights and tools to enhance your understanding and expertise in this interdisciplinary field.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 241 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811982569
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022