A Constrained, Force-Directed Layout Algorithm for Biological Pathways

We present a new elegant algorithm for layout of biological signaling pathways. It uses a force-directed layout scheme, taking into account directional and regional constraints enforced by different molecular interaction types and subcellular locations in a cell. The algorithm has been successfully implemented as part of a pathway integration and analysis toolkit named PATIKA and results with respect to computational complexity and quality of the layout have been found satisfactory.