Complexity Science Seminar Series - Abstracts
Title: Simulating HIV Recombination - What drives novel strain emergence?
Presenter:
Katherine Wendelsdorf, NDSSL
Date and Time: Tuesday, June 24th, 2008 11:30-12:30am
Abstract:
In the area of pathogen emergence HIV is an ideal model due to its high evolution rate as well as the extensive amount of data that has been gathered on both biological and social aspects of the pandemic. Genetic recombination plays a critical role in HIV divergence and evolution. One of the greatest determinants of recombination occurrence and the consequent product is the infection of a single CD4+ cell with multiple HIV viral genomes (superinfection). Research indicates that this process is mediated by the CD4 cell surface receptor density as well as the cell's physical proximity to other superinfected cells in the body. As such, dynamics of CD4+ cell superinfection by HIV are similar to those that affect disease spread through a population. The agent-based modeling techniques the NDSSL group has developed can be appropriately applied to this system. In this seminar I propose a model for simulating HIV recombination with in the human host under different conditions of immune activation and varying viral fitness. This simulation can be used to test hypothesis pertaining to the aspects of our physiology that affect HIV recombination rates. I propose that this model be nested within various transmission networks to test hypothesis about what role human social structures and behaviors play in promoting HIV recombination and subsequent strain emergence. The seminar is meant to be an informal discussion that will begin with an explanation of the basic biology of the human immune system to be simulated as well as the questions being asked that revolve around what are the factors that affect HIV recombination and strain emergence? I will propose models for each level of the simulation that are meant to stimulate discussion . The point of the seminar is to gather insights and suggestions for creating such models as well as to determine where relevant expertise lie within the group and to recruit those potentially interested in participating. This is a topic of great public health and biological relevance that offers a setting for NDSSL to integrate multiscale, interaction-based models from molecule to society.Bio: For more information about Katherine Wendesldorf, please visit her Web page.
Seminar Location: The seminars are held at:
Virginia Tech, Corporate Research Center
1880 Pratt Drive, Building XV
Seminar Room, First Floor
Directions: Map (PDF)
Back to: NDSSL Seminar Page