A protein-protein interaction network is a complex map that illustrates how different proteins in a cell interact with one another. These interactions are crucial for various biological processes, including cell signaling, metabolism, and gene regulation. By studying these networks, scientists can better understand how cells function and respond to changes in their environment. In these networks, each protein is represented as a node, while the interactions between them are depicted as edges or connections. Analyzing these networks helps researchers identify key proteins that may play significant roles in diseases, such as cancer or neurodegenerative disorders, and can guide the development of targeted therapies.