Viral dynamic modeling and simulations in HIV and hepatitis C

Abstract

Viral dynamic modeling and simulations have dramatically improved our understanding of the life cycle of chronic viral infections such as HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). These viral dynamic models account for the interaction between virus and host, and how antiviral agents interfere with this system thereby reducing the measured viral load and clearing the virus. In this chapter, the basic viral dynamic modeling concepts such as the predator-prey interaction introduced by Lotka-Volterra, the basic reproductive ratio (R0), the reproductive minimal inhibitory concentration (RMIC) and the physiologically based viral eradication boundary are explained and illustrated by viral dynamic models developed for HIV and HCV. Examples are presented showing how simulations based on these models can be used to better understand the virus-host system and the mechanism of action of antiviral drugs, and to optimize treatment. © American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists 2011.