Biological modeling on a microcomputer using standard spreadsheet and equation solver programs: The hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis as an example

Abstract

Computer modeling of biological systems has many applications, with contributions possible in locations ranging from the classroom to the clinic. Many modeling systems have utilized mainframes or minicomputers and specifically designed programs, factors which have limited the widespread adaptation of these tools. The medical community has made increasing use of microcomputers and off-the-shelf software packages. Research in biological modeling might be enhanced by the availability of such systems running off of general use software (e.g., spreadsheet programs). The present project was undertaken to determine whether a general purpose spreadsheet program can serve as a medium for modeling a complex biological system. The physiology underlying the human menstrual cycle is highly complex. It involves the integration of input from the higher brain centers, the hypothalamus, the pituitary, the adrenals, the ovaries, and peripheral hormonal conversion. The classical “simplified” system considers only the input from the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovary (I, 2). A biological model of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (HPOA) has previously been completed on a mainframe (3). We have now built a model of the HPOA with the use of a spreadsheet program (Lotus 1-2-3, Lotus Development Corp., Cambridge, MA) and an equation solver program (Eureka, Borland International Inc., Scotts Valley, CA) for use on IBM microcomputers and compatibles. The mathematical equations derived through Eureka were extrapolated from existing biological data. We believe this is the first such model of its type ever constructed. More importantly, it demonstrates the ability to accomplish such complex biological modeling on microcomputers using mainstream programs.