Modeling transport kinetics with StarLogo

Abstract

StarLogo, an agent-based modeling and simulation platform, was used to simulate adsorption-mediated transcytosis of a molecule from the lumen side of a cell membrane to the abluminal extra-cellular fluid (ECF). The model contains small nondiffusible substrate molecules, transporters, and substrate-transporter agents. The "reaction" is a transporter combining with the substrate which then crosses the cell cytoplasm. The substrate that is deposited on the ECF side becomes the "product". Results showed characteristics consistent with Michaelis-Menten enzyme kinetics. The model can serve as an example of agent-based modeling and simulation.