Multi-scale modelling of biological systems in process algebra with multi-way synchronisation

Degasperi, A. and Calder, M. (2011) Multi-scale modelling of biological systems in process algebra with multi-way synchronisation. In: 9th International Conference on Computational Methods in Systems Biology, Paris, France, 21-23 September 2011, p. 195. (doi: 10.1145/2037509.2037537)

Abstract

We present a stochastic process algebra designed for modelling biological systems at multiple scales, called process algebra with hooks (PAH). In PAH, processes represent different scales, e.g. biochemistry, cells or tissue. There are two synchronisation operators, distinguishing interactions within and between scales; composed actions represent events that occur at multiple scales. A stochastic semantics is provided, based on functional rates derived from kinetic laws. A parametric version of the algebra ensures that a model description is compact. An example illustrates how the algebra can be used to model and simulate multi-scale tissue growth, where growth and death of tissue depend on the local concentration of chemicals.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Calder, Professor Muffy
• Authors: Degasperi, A., and Calder, M.
• Subjects: Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA75 Electronic computers. Computer science; Q Science > QH Natural history
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science