A forecast for large-scale, predictive biology: Lessons from meteorology.

ABSTRACT

Quantitative systems biology, in which predictive mathematical models are constructed to guide the design of experiments and predict experimental outcomes, is at an exciting transition point, where the foundational scientific principles are becoming established, but the impact is not yet global. The next steps necessary for mathematical modeling to transform biological research and applications, in the same way it has already transformed other fields, is not completely clear. The purpose of this perspective is to forecast possible answers to this question-what needs to happen next-by drawing on the experience gained in another field, specifically meteorology. We review here a number of lessons learned in weather prediction that are directly relevant to biological systems modeling, and that we believe can enable the same kinds of global impact in our field as atmospheric modeling makes today.