Submitted on November 14, 2006
Revised on November 28, 2006
Accepted on December 1, 2006
Multi-organ whole-genome measurements and reverse engineering to uncover gene networks underlying complex traits
Jesper Tegnér, Josefin Skogsberg, and Johan Björkegren
Medicine, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm 171 76
Corresponding Author: johan.bjorkegren{at}ki.se
The development of whole-genome measurement technologies together with computational analysis and modeling hold the potential to fundamentally change research of complex disorders such as coronary artery disease. With these tools, the stage has been set to reveal the full repertoire of biological components (genes, proteins, and metabolites) in complex diseases and their interplay in modules and networks. Here we review how network identification based on reverse engineering, as applied to whole-genome datasets from simpler organisms, is now being adapted to more complex settings such as datasets from human cell lines and organs in relation to physiological and pathological states. Our focus is on the use of a systems biological approach to identify principle as well as biological gene networks in coronary atherosclerosis. We also address as to how gene networks will likely play a key role in the development of early diagnostics and treatments for complex disorders in the coming era of individualized medicine.
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