Basic Control Theory for Biologists

by Tau-Mu Yi, Herbert Sauro and Brian Ingalls

The goal of this tutorial is to introduce Systems Biologists to fundamental concepts in control theory.  This relatively mature body of knowledge has been instrumental in the successful design of countless man-made complex systems.  Biologists, who are trying to reverse engineer complex living networks, can benefit from the insights this theory can provide into the design of biological systems.  Of particular importance is understanding the role of feedback control in ensuring the robust behavior of biological processes subjected to internal and external disturbances.  

0. Introduction to Tutorial (10 minutes).  [Slides]

1. Introduction to Feedback Control (45 minutes).  [Slides] [Notes].

1b. Bridge between Sections 1 and 2.  [Slides]

2. Connections between Metabolic Control Theory and Modern Control Theory (45 minutes).  [Slides] [Notes].

3. Elements of Robust Control: Homeostasis and Integral Control (30 minutes).  [Slides] [Notes].

4. Limits of Control and Bode’s Integral Formula (30 minutes).  [Slides] [Notes].

5. Reverse Engineering Biological Systems (30 minutes).  [Slides] [Notes].

NEW (12-17-02): Selected references for tutorial. [References]