SBML stands for Systems Biology Markup Language. It is a computer-readable format used for representing and sharing computational models in the field of systems biology.
SBML is designed to be a standard language for encoding mathematical models of biological processes, such as metabolic pathways, signaling networks, and gene regulatory networks. It allows researchers to share, exchange, and re-use mathematical models, facilitating collaboration and reproducibility in the field of systems biology.
The language is based on XML (eXtensible Markup Language), which allows for easy parsing and manipulation of SBML files using various programming languages. SBML files are composed of standardized elements that describe the molecular entities, reactions, compartments, and mathematical formulas used in the model. These elements are organized in a hierarchical structure to represent the biological processes in a clear and concise manner.
One of the key advantages of SBML is its interoperability. Since it is a standardized format, SBML models can be read and executed by a wide range of software tools and simulation platforms. This allows researchers to easily exchange models between different software packages and perform simulations using different algorithms or analysis techniques.
Overall, SBML serves as a lingua franca for the systems biology community, enabling the exchange and integration of computational models and promoting the advancement of our understanding of complex biological systems.
