Essential challenges persist in systems biology, notably data and model integration. These issues may explain the lack of a universal framework to organize dynamic behaviors across scales. Complementary Regulatory Dynamics (CRD) is an integrative theory for studying how complex adaptive systems generate changes while preserving viable functions. The theory centers on five provisional, testable principles.
CRD may help integrate models from established theories in systems biology, including nonlinear dynamical systems theory, homeostasis, allostasis, robustness. CRD may serve as a common logic for organizing complex biological networks. It may help identify causal variables and build explicit bridges linking multiple scales. As a falsifiable theory, it can improve experimental design and clinical testing. It shifts from static biomarkers to dynamical bio-patterns and time-sensitive approaches.
In translational settings, this could help detect early-warning signals, transition-prone states, and intervention windows. Therapeutic strategies can focus on systems-based biotargets to restore dynamic balance. CRD theory may provide potentially unifying guidance for translating systems biology into dynamical systems medicine.
Read more at https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202609.2067
Reference:
Yan, Q. Complementary Regulatory Dynamics: An Integrative Theory for Systems Biology and Dynamical Systems Medicine. Preprints 2026, 2026092067. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202609.2067.v1