Mathematical models of energy homeostasis.

Diabetes and obesity present a mounting global challenge. Clinicians are increasingly turning to mechanism-based mathematical models for a quantitative definition of physiological defects such as insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and elevated obesity set points, and for predictions of the likely outcomes of therapeutic interventions. However, a very large range of such models is available, making a judicious choice difficult. To better inform this choice, here we present the most important models published to date in a uniform format, discussing similarities and differences in terms of the decisions faced by modellers. We review models for glucostasis, based on the glucose-insulin feedback control loop, and consider extensions to long-term energy balance, dislipidaemia and obesity.