A Molecular Interaction Map (MIM) is a diagram convention that is capable of unambiguous representation of networks
containing multi-protein complexes, protein modifications, and enzymes that are substrates
of other enzymes. This graphical representation makes it possible to view all of the many
interactions in which a given molecule may be involved, and it can portray competing interactions,
which are common in bioregulatory networks. In order to facilitate linkage to databases, each
molecular species is represented only once in a diagram. A formal description of the MIM notation
can be found in Kohn et al., Molecular Biology of the cell 17, 1-13 2006.
The MIM notation forms the basis of, and further development of the MIM notation is coordinated with,
the Systems Biology Graphical Notation (SBGN) consortium, an international effort to standardize diagrams
depicting biochemical and cellular processes studied in systems biology. Molecular species can be located on
the map by means of indexed grid coordinates and on eMIMs through interactive links. Each interaction is
referenced to an annotation list where pertinent information and references can be found.
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