A multicompartment model for open-loop control of glucose in insulin-dependent diabetics

This paper describes a model that has been developed for individually adjusted therapy management in insulin-dependent diabetics. The multicompartment model considers all relevant aspects of glucose kinetics and its dependence on insulin. The structure of the model reflects that of the physiological system. Its parameters can be classified into (a) general parameters that are independent of the individual, (b) classifying parameters that are related systematically to the individual, and (c) distinguishing parameters. Classifying parameters allow a very convenient adjustment to relevant features of the individual like sex, age, body weight and length. The model can be employed in open-loop control for the calculation of insulin dosages. It allows the prediction of the system's behaviour as well as the consideration of predictable disturbance variables, e.g. food intake and physical exercise.