Biological Modeling Challenges in a Multiphysics Approach

Modeling biological behaviour requires a multidisciplinary approach and very large computational resources. In this paper, we present an overview of our research work with regards to biological neuron network (NN) modeling, electro-chemical reaction emulation for neurotransmitters and finite element modeling (FEM) of a very low pressure micropump for neurotransmitter concentration modulations. Three different approaches have been explored, namely MATLAB simulations of biological NN, MATLAB simulations of electro-chemical reactions and the FEM approach. Our objective through biological NN modeling is to investigate the need to develop a dedicated chip for a NN implementation or to use a strictly software approach. The objective of the electrochemical emulator is to provide a tool which can help us to understand how to decompose cyclic voltammetry curves into more conventional and easy to interpret graphs. However, although the three approaches appear independent, they are in fact all related as we investigate the computer performances needed for biological modeling.