Bayesian metamodeling of complex biological systems across varying representations

Significance Cells are the basic units of life, yet their architecture and function remain to be fully characterized. This work describes Bayesian metamodeling, a modeling approach that divides and conquers a large problem of modeling numerous aspects of the cell into computing a number of smaller models of different types, followed by assembling these models into a complete map of the cell. Metamodeling enables a facile collaboration of multiple research groups and communities, thus maximizing the sharing of expertise, resources, data, and models. A proof of principle is provided by a model of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion produced by the Pancreatic β-Cell Consortium.