A Review of Mathematical Models for Muscular Dystrophy: A Systems Biology Approach

TL;DR

This paper reviews mathematical models of muscular dystrophy that integrate molecular, cellular, and immunological factors to understand disease progression through a systems biology perspective.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of existing models and lays the groundwork for a systems biology approach to studying MD.

Findings

Molecular effectors like mitochondrial bioenergetics and genetics are key to MD progression.

Mechanical stress activates immunological cascades that weaken tissues.

The review establishes a foundation for future systems biology models of MD.

Abstract

Muscular dystrophy (MD) describes generalized progressive muscular weakness due to the wasting of muscle fibers. The progression of the disease is affected by known immunological and mechanical factors, and possibly other unknown mechanisms. These dynamics have begun to be elucidated in the last two decades. This article reviews mathematical models of MD that characterize molecular and cellular components implicated in MD progression. A biological background for these processes is also presented. Molecular effectors that contribute to MD include mitochondrial bioenergetics and genetic factors; both drive cellular metabolism, communication and signaling. These molecular events leave cells vulnerable to mechanical stress which can activate an immunological cascade that weakens cells and surrounding tissues. This review article lays the foundation for a systems biology approach to study MD progression.