Multiscale Analysis and Integrative Modeling
The research of this group focuses on the multiscale analysis of experimental data and the integrative modeling of physiological processes starting from the cellular level up to the whole human being. The goal is an enhanced understanding of dynamic physiological processes, especially with respect to their stability and homeostatic compensations towards the possible crossing of tipping points. This should help to understand and recognize pathophysiological processes in order to avoid or delay the onset of diseases or to be able to start therapies at an early stage.
In this context we are investigating together with experimental partners the effects of bioactive peptides, especially antihypertensive peptides. Analogously, the extracellular adenine nucleotide and nucleoside metabolism and its influence on vascular calcification is in focus. Another focus is on the analysis and modeling of cell migration as a stochastic, anomalous process [Dieterich2008, Dieterich2022]. Furthermore, we investigate how cell-cell interactions in confluent endothelial cells alter single cell dynamics and generate collective movements.
We develop mathematical models, often in the form of ordinary and stochastic differential equations. We create programs based on python for simulation. In addition, we use light microscopy methods to analyze cell migration and software developed in-house to track cell movements. The consistent use of Bayesian data analysis realizes the analytical bracket for the integration of experimental results. This allows both the estimation of model parameters and model selection. We are increasingly using machine learning methods to construct suitable models.
Our working group is networked with various groups on the Medical Campus and the TU Dresden as well as with other national and international partners (see Cooperations).
Key Publications
- Dieterich P, Lindemann O, Moskopp ML, Tauzin S, Huttenlocher A, Klages R, Chechkin A, Schwab A. Asymmetric anomalous diffusion in neutrophil chemotaxis. PLoS Computational Biology 18(5), e1010089/1-26 (2022).
- Dieterich P, Klages R, Preuss R, Schwab A. Anomalous dynamics of cell migration. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA V105(2):459-63 (2008).