A methodology for performing global uncertainty and sensitivity analysis in systems biology

Simeone Marino, Ian B. Hogue, Christian J. Ray, Denise E. Kirschner

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1774 Scopus citations

Abstract

Accuracy of results from mathematical and computer models of biological systems is often complicated by the presence of uncertainties in experimental data that are used to estimate parameter values. Current mathematical modeling approaches typically use either single-parameter or local sensitivity analyses. However, these methods do not accurately assess uncertainty and sensitivity in the system as, by default, they hold all other parameters fixed at baseline values. Using techniques described within we demonstrate how a multi-dimensional parameter space can be studied globally so all uncertainties can be identified. Further, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis techniques can help to identify and ultimately control uncertainties. In this work we develop methods for applying existing analytical tools to perform analyses on a variety of mathematical and computer models. We compare two specific types of global sensitivity analysis indexes that have proven to be among the most robust and efficient. Through familiar and new examples of mathematical and computer models, we provide a complete methodology for performing these analyses, in both deterministic and stochastic settings, and propose novel techniques to handle problems encountered during these types of analyses.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)178-196
Number of pages19
JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology
Volume254
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 7 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Agent-based model (ABM)
  • Aleatory uncertainty
  • Epistemic uncertainty
  • Extended Fourier amplitude sensitivity test (eFAST)
  • Latin hypercube sampling (LHS)
  • Monte Carlo methods
  • Partial rank correlation coefficient (PRCC)
  • Sensitivity index

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Statistics and Probability
  • Modeling and Simulation
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • Applied Mathematics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A methodology for performing global uncertainty and sensitivity analysis in systems biology'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this