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Kinetic modeling and biological system dynamics with Microsoft Excel: how to estimate parameters and solve equations for problems in nutrition
Author(s) -
Hargrove James L.,
Smith Jeffrey W.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.567.1
Subject(s) - computer science , solver , software , range (aeronautics) , microsoft excel , set (abstract data type) , euler equations , mathematics , algorithm , operating system , materials science , composite material , programming language , mathematical analysis
Microsoft Excel and similar freeware are powerful tools for mathematical and statistical analysis that are widely available but underutilized in nutritional research and teaching. For example, it is desirable to establish dose‐response curves and study oral dosing, bioavailability, metabolism and tissue effects of dispensable and indispensable nutrients and phytochemicals. We show how to use the Solver function to estimate parameters that provide best fits of data to specific equations. In addition, we have developed cell formulas and/or used Excel's accessory program, Visual Basic for Applications, to develop integrators based on methods of Euler and Runge‐Kutta that solve finite difference equations by iterative methods. With this approach, one may solve equations developed for kinetics and dynamics of specific nutrients or phytochemicals, and address modeling topics that range from changes in gene expression to effects on growth or deficiency conditions. This abstract will compare results of solving an analytical equation for approach to steady state of a single compartment with the same equation as solved by iterative, numerical methods. We will then show how to link several compartments and set up a systems model. In this manner, Microsoft Excel can perform simulation, analysis and modeling much as specialty modeling software does, but without the cost of an additional site license.