Abstract: Using an in silico testing environment, host-pathogen interactions can be modeled and simulated by, in any effective order, identifying a plurality of biological events associated with a pathogen's invasion of a host; identifying for each biological event, at least one agent associated with the event; describing the state for each agent and/or identifying at least one action for each agent; identifying at least one interaction between agents; simulating a temporal course of the host-pathogen interaction using the plurality of biological events; and displaying the results of the simulation phase. The simulation phase may be accomplished using an agent-based simulation system that includes a feedback loop. The feedback loop is configured for continuously using output of at least one simulation as input for at least another simulation until an end is met.

Abstract: The present invention reveals a method for developing agent-based simulation systems that are capable for the modeling and simulation of a systematic and analytical approach to a host-pathogen interaction. This methodology may enable users to explore “what if” scenarios and develop predictive data that may be used in experimental design and the testing of hypotheses of disease states. Using an in silico testing environment, the in silico approach helps combine knowledge of disease states that may be obtained from various sources, such as in vitro studies and in vivo studies, without requiring users to perform all necessary experimentation.