Time delay in physiological systems: Analyzing and modeling its impact

This article examines the functional and clinical impact of time delays that arise in human physiological systems, especially control systems. An overview of the mathematical and physiological contexts for considering time delays will be illustrated, from the system level to cell level, by examining models that incorporate time delays. This examination will highlight how such delays in combination with other system structures and parameters influence system dynamics. Model analysis that reveals the influence of delays can also reveal related physiological effects which may have medical consequences and clinical applications.

► Review investigates where time delay arises in physiological systems.
► Over half of recent cited research (and 44% of all research) is from 2005 or later.
► Important and key historical research is also cited.
► Important and also readable background references are provided.
► Clear connections made between physiological delay and model implementation: methods and implications.
► Clinical problems related to time delay and related model studies leading to potential treatments represent important subthemes.