Abstract:
Background. ABM can be used to model individual structures as cells, organs, systems, and their
interactions, considering factors such as cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation. SDM can
then help capture the overall dynamics of the tissue and organ system, incorporating factors like
nutrient distribution, oxygen levels, and growth factors. By combining both models, researchers can
comprehensively understand how cells/tissues/organs behave and interact. This paper explores how
ABM and SDM can benefit tissue engineering, uncovering the potential for future models.
Materials and methods. The NetLogo integrated development environment (IDE) is used for this
research. The “regular” part of this IDE is used to showcase some cell interactions and dynamics, and
the system dynamic modeler serves to represent the interaction of three systems: (a) maternal, (b)
fetoplacental system, and (c) the fetus.
Results. A hybrid model that combines ABM and SDM was created using the NetLogo programming
environment. The ABM component visualizes the behavior of cells (i.e., erythrocytes) at the placental
level. The SDM component consists of three subsystems: (a) the maternal system (primarily, elements
that determine oxygen transport), (b) the fetoplacental system, and (c) the fetal system (with emphasis
on the elements that determine oxygen delivery to the fetus, DfetusO2). The DfetusO2 value is influenced
by the dynamics of the physiological parameters, which are the foundation of the three subsystems and
can be monitored using traditional methods. Modifying specific parameters within each subsystem
directly impacts DfetusO2, the central element of the model's graphical interface. In this way, one can
continuously monitor oxygen delivery to fetal tissues. The demo version of the created model includes
several scenarios: (a) state of anesthesia, (b) maternal pathology (e.g., anemia, heart failure, etc.), and
(c) fetoplacental pathology (e.g., abruptio placentae). The model is available at
https://modelingcommons.org/browse/one_model/6688#model_tabs_browse_info
Conclusions. This example demonstrates the successful integration of ABM and SDM that can serve
as leverage for tissue engineering research, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of
cell/tissue and system behavior and prediction of complex biological processes. By combining the
strengths of both modeling approaches, researchers can gain deeper insights into tissue dynamics and
design more effective interventions.
