Systems biology: from physiology to gene regulation

The discovery of DNA and its essential role in cellular function has revolutionized the science of biology. Rapid progress in biology has led to new and exciting discoveries that promise to uncover the basic underpinnings of life. As biology becomes quantitative, the role of mathematics becomes important. Furthermore, the complex nature of biology systems makes an integrative systems approach essential. In this article, the author focused on two areas where control theory can play a key role. Mathematical modeling has not only helped reverse engineer biological systems, but it has also made forward engineering possible. If this opportunity is seized, control theory becomes the bridge between the technological sciences and the life sciences.