Using probabilistic model checking in systems biology

Probabilistic model checking is a formal verification framework for systems which exhibit stochastic behaviour. It has been successfully applied to a wide range of domains, including security and communication protocols, distributed algorithms and power management. In this paper we demonstrate its applicability to the analysis of biological pathways and show how it can yield a better understanding of the dynamics of these systems. Through a case study of the MAP (Mitogen-Activated Protein) Kinase cascade, we explain how biological pathways can be modelled in the probabilistic model checker PRISM and how this enables the analysis of a rich selection of quantitative properties.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2008
• Where: SIGMETRICS
• Authors: Marta Z. Kwiatkowska, Gethin Norman, David Parker
• Keywords: Biological Pathways, Formal Verification Framework, Hardware, Probabilistic Model, SIGMETRICS 2008