Development of a GUI-based platform for analysis of alveolar macrophage cell pH and ion regulation

Mathematical models of complex biological cell systems are an important means to gain insight into the underlying biophysical & biochemical mechanisms that govern cellular homeostasis and regulation. Because of the nonlinear nature of the transport processes, and the multiplicity of mechanisms, these models are often very complex and cumbersome. This often limits their utility in integrated multi-disciplinary studies involving physiologists, engineers and clinicians. In order to allow the broader use of a mathematical model of cell and subcellular pH, ion and volume regulation, we have developed a graphical user interface (GUI), which can serve as a platform for both research and teaching of cell acid-base and ion regulation. Because of the modular nature of the GUI-platform, new complexities (such as calcium regulation) and additional transport mechanisms, including signal transduction pathways, can be easily incorporated.