Mathematical Modelling of Microbial Processes-Motivation and Means

Abstract

In this paper the motivation for using mathematical models to describe microbial processes is discussed. Mathematical models have a unique ability to extract information from the wealth of experimental data constantly accumulating in the fields of basic and applied microbiology. They allow for detailed investigations of the interactions in complex biological systems that are otherwise practically impossible. Modelling can be applied to optimise the performance of industrial processes, e.g. by use in advanced control algorithms or by simulating different operating conditions. Furthermore, mathematical models used for computer simulations of microbial processes are invaluable educational tools. Mathematical models can be grouped in three classes — whole cell models, segregation models and element models. A whole cell model describes growth and product formation, often in an empirical fashion. A segregation model is used to describe different cell types, and element models are used to give detailed mechanistic descriptions of specific processes. Any level of detail can be included in each of the three classes of models, and the different models may be combined when a fermentation process is to be described. Here a general mathematical framework is given for whole cell models and a few examples of relatively simple, yet very applicable, models are given.