Department
Computer Science
Major
Computer Science
Research Advisor
Scharf, Andrea
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Funding Source
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 project builds on Worm-Pop, a Python-based multi-agent simulation of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) , to enhance its capabilities in simulating survival strategies, reproductive success, and genetic drift. The current model simulates a uniform population without inter-agent interactions. I plan to introduce multiple species of worms into the simulation to study competitive dynamics and determine which variants are most successful under various conditions. Pheromones significantly influence C. elegans behavior, affecting mating, foraging, and social interactions. To address this, I will develop a model to simulate pheromone interactions. The accuracy of our computational model will be validated through in-vivo experiments with real C. elegans populations. This step is crucial for ensuring the model's reliability and for adjusting it based on actual biological observations. Our work aims to provide a more detailed understanding of C. elegans population dynamics and the factors influencing genetic diversity and adaptation. This enhanced simulation tool will be valuable for research in developmental biology, genetics, and ecology.
Biography
Kevin is a Computer Science senior who applies Computer Science to biological challenges. He's a passionate social swing dancer, and a musician, playing the cello and violin. Kevin balances his tech-driven pursuit with daily reading and exercise. Postgraduation, Kevin hopes to pursue a career in software engineering while attending graduate school for bioinformatics.
Research Category
Engineering
Presentation Type
OURE Fellows Proposal Oral Applicant
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Havener Center - Carver Room
Presentation Date
10 April 2024, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Included in
Simulating Inter-Species Competition in C. Elegans
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 project builds on Worm-Pop, a Python-based multi-agent simulation of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) , to enhance its capabilities in simulating survival strategies, reproductive success, and genetic drift. The current model simulates a uniform population without inter-agent interactions. I plan to introduce multiple species of worms into the simulation to study competitive dynamics and determine which variants are most successful under various conditions. Pheromones significantly influence C. elegans behavior, affecting mating, foraging, and social interactions. To address this, I will develop a model to simulate pheromone interactions. The accuracy of our computational model will be validated through in-vivo experiments with real C. elegans populations. This step is crucial for ensuring the model's reliability and for adjusting it based on actual biological observations. Our work aims to provide a more detailed understanding of C. elegans population dynamics and the factors influencing genetic diversity and adaptation. This enhanced simulation tool will be valuable for research in developmental biology, genetics, and ecology.
