Combining wet and dry research: Experience with model development for cardiac mechano-electric structure-function studies

T. Alexander Quinn, Peter Kohl

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

59 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Since the development of the first mathematical cardiac cell model 50 years ago, computational modelling has become an increasingly powerful tool for the analysis of data and for the integration of information related to complex cardiac behaviour. Current models build on decades of iteration between experiment and theory, representing a collective understanding of cardiac function. All models, whether computational, experimental, or conceptual, are simplified representations of reality and, like tools in a toolbox, suitable for specific applications. Their range of applicability can be explored (and expanded) by iterative combination of 'wet' and 'dry' investigation, where experimental or clinical data are used to first build and then validate computational models (allowing integration of previous findings, quantitative assessment of conceptual models, and projection across relevant spatial and temporal scales), while computational simulations are utilized for plausibility assessment, hypotheses-generation, and prediction (thereby defining further experimental research targets). When implemented effectively, this combined wet/dry research approach can support the development of a more complete and cohesive understanding of integrated biological function. This review illustrates the utility of such an approach, based on recent examples of multi-scale studies of cardiac structure and mechano-electric function.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)601-611
Number of pages11
JournalCardiovascular Research
Volume97
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 15 2013

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
This work has been supported by the British Heart Foundation. Data and models underlying the review have been collected with the support of the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Magdi Yacoub Institute, and the European Commission FP7 Virtual Physiological Human Initiative. TAQ was holder of a UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Postdoctoral Fellowship and PK is a Senior Fellow of the British Heart Foundation. The Open Access charges will be funded by the British Heart Foundation.

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Physiology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Physiology (medical)

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