COBRA (Constraint-Based Reconstruction and Analysis)

COBRA (Constraint-Based Reconstruction and Analysis) is a computational approach used to model and analyze biological systems, especially metabolic networks within cells. It uses mathematical constraints to represent how different biochemical reactions are interconnected and limited by factors like enzyme availability or nutrient intake. By applying these constraints, COBRA can predict how a cell might respond to various conditions, identify essential pathways, or suggest potential interventions. It helps scientists understand complex biological processes at a systems level, supporting research in areas like drug development, metabolic engineering, and disease understanding.