Systems Biology of the Liver

This chapter explores the potential and progress of using systems biology to provide an understanding of functioning of the liver, the main organ of metabolism regulation in the body. The range of studies for modeling the metabolic, genetic, and physiological systems that affect the main functions of the liver, although currently at an early stage, are discussed. In particular, the modeling of a key liver function–glucose homeostasis–is used to exemplify the progress and potential of systems biology in the liver. Many models used to predict liver behavior are capable of predicting quantitative behavior to within an order of magnitude accuracy; however, for use in patient analysis a greater fidelity of the models is required to provide an even greater level of accuracy. Many challenges remain to understand and predict other complex interacting functions of the liver, beyond glucose homeostasis. Systems biology provides an opportunity to unravel the complex interacting phenomena involved in liver behavior that otherwise would be impossible. A key opportunity here is to employ systems biology for clinical purposes, with individualized medicines, the aim being to develop an in silico model such that the potential hepatoxicity of drugs could be predicted in individuals, allowing the development of safer treatments.