Visualizing C. elegans Population Dynamics

Kevin Lai, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Chubi Adejoh, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Yug Patel, Missouri University of Science and Technology

Abstract

In biological research, understanding the life cycles of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is pivotal for insights into developmental biology, genetics, and population dynamics. Our team developed a software tool that enhances the accessibility and interpretability of C. elegans population dynamics simulations. This tool is designed to complement an existing simulator that models each worm individually, tracking its progression through various life stages including egg, larva, adult, dauer, and death. The software transforms simulation data into a directed graph for visualization. This graphical representation delineates the life cycle transitions of C. elegans but also dynamically adjusts to reflect the population density at each stage. The nodes within the graph change in size corresponding to the quantity of worms in each life stage, while the directed arrows change in size to depict the volume of transitions between stages. The software is equipped with a user-friendly web interface, making it accessible to both technical and non-technical users alike. It facilitates the execution of multiple simulation instances, enables the adjustment of run-time parameters, and provides functionalities for downloading and graphically representing the simulation data. This level of interactivity and control empowers users to explore various scenarios and parameters, fostering a deeper understanding of C. elegans population dynamics.

This paper has been withdrawn.
 
Apr 10th, 1:00 PM Apr 10th, 4:00 PM

Visualizing C. elegans Population Dynamics

Havener Center - Carver Room

In biological research, understanding the life cycles of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is pivotal for insights into developmental biology, genetics, and population dynamics. Our team developed a software tool that enhances the accessibility and interpretability of C. elegans population dynamics simulations. This tool is designed to complement an existing simulator that models each worm individually, tracking its progression through various life stages including egg, larva, adult, dauer, and death. The software transforms simulation data into a directed graph for visualization. This graphical representation delineates the life cycle transitions of C. elegans but also dynamically adjusts to reflect the population density at each stage. The nodes within the graph change in size corresponding to the quantity of worms in each life stage, while the directed arrows change in size to depict the volume of transitions between stages. The software is equipped with a user-friendly web interface, making it accessible to both technical and non-technical users alike. It facilitates the execution of multiple simulation instances, enables the adjustment of run-time parameters, and provides functionalities for downloading and graphically representing the simulation data. This level of interactivity and control empowers users to explore various scenarios and parameters, fostering a deeper understanding of C. elegans population dynamics.