Stanford University replicate the success of a computer model organism

You might not believe this but really old one can not successfully developed a complete computer model of a living cell. The reason is outside the very small size, the processes inside the cell is extremely complex. However, recently engineers from Stanford has his name in history when re-creating successful computer models of small-celled bacteria in the world - Mycoplasma genitalium.   The research team led by associate professor of biological engineering have chosen M. Markus Covert genitalium because it has 525 genes - the smallest genome of the organism freedom. Meanwhile, well-known bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) gene back up to 4288. If some variant of E. coli is the root cause of many diseases such as septicemia, the M. gentalium itself is not toxic. The bacteria are spread through sexual contact and is the source of exposure to diseases such as urethritis or vaginitis.   For modeling, the research team has exploited data from more than 900 scientific documents on the bacteria to find out the molecular interactions taking place in free bacteria M. genitalium. Model results are integrated over 1900 different parameters and is divided into 28 separate modules. Each module is responsible for a biological process and is controlled by the algorithm developed by them. The modules also communicate with each other and reproduce precisely the methods of biological processes influence each other within the true bacteria.   In fact, this is one of the most valuable elements of the model. Usually, when tested with real bacteria, the researchers simulated a gene and observe the remarkable change occurs in bacteria. With a computer model, scientists can immediately see any changes occur in all systems of bacteria. Of course this is not necessarily a hypothesis by what I saw in the model will take place exactly as in real bacteria. However, "If you use a model to guide your research, you can discover things faster," Covert said.   Currently, Covert team used computer models to identify new gene functions and dynamics studies of proteins in the DNA link. In one study, more specifically, they looked for the mystery surrounding the stages of cell division cycle of M. genitalium to determine the length of each stage between individual bacteria or short length of the split ring over the whole bacteria.   In addition, the researchers believe that such models can be used in the Bio-CAD (Computer-aided design). They assert that organizations genetically micro can be changed or even created, the first virtual model development and application to real organizations.   Finally, if the body can be recreated in the form of computer models, things such as treatments with drugs or genes can be tested before on the model and then applied to humans so if they prove safe and effective. However, this is not easy to implement and time will give them answers.   Discovery of Stanford University, was published in the journal Cell on Thursday last six.   By: Gizmag ...