Systems Medicine

Why are some diseases prevalent while others remain absent? In his insightful work, Alon, a pioneer in the field of systems biology, lays the groundwork for systems medicine. The book begins with fundamental principles and explores the reasons behind the construction of physiological circuits. These circuits possess vulnerabilities that elucidate the emergence of certain diseases and suggest innovative treatment pathways. By the conclusion, readers are empowered to utilize straightforward yet robust mathematical models to characterize these circuits. The book delves into three primary areas: hormone circuits, immune circuits, and the processes of aging and age-related diseases, culminating in a conceptual periodic table of diseases. Alon writes in a manner that is comprehensible to a wide readership, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and research professionals from computational or biological disciplines. The mathematical aspects are approachable, with the option to skip them if desired. For those seeking a deeper understanding, the text provides a series of classroom-tested exercises.