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VIVID: In Vivo End-to-End Molecular Communication Model for COVID-19
Saswati Pal1, Nabiul Islam2, Sudip Misra3
1School of Nano-Science and TechnologyIndian Institute of Technology Kharagpur Kharagpur 721302 India.
Summary
This study models coronavirus spread in the respiratory tract using molecular communication. Findings reveal how virus transmission dynamics correlate with disease severity, particularly in asthmatic patients.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Computational Biology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Understanding coronavirus transmission is crucial for developing effective therapeutics beyond vaccines.
- Novel treatments like nanoparticle- and stem cell-based therapies are being explored.
- The dynamics of virus propagation within the respiratory system require detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model the transmission and propagation of coronavirus from the nasal area to the alveoli.
- To analyze the communication channel characteristics (path loss, delay, gain) using molecular communication theory.
- To correlate channel characteristics with the pathophysiological properties of coronavirus infection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized molecular communication theory to model virus transmission.
- Performed simulations using COMSOL multiphysics software and Python.
- Analyzed end-to-end communication model parameters: path loss, delay, and gain.
Main Results:
- Established a correlation between respiratory channel characteristics and coronavirus pathophysiology.
- Observed a significant increase (over 16 times) in path loss during the initial 50% of the virus production rate.
- Identified delayed immune response and increased virus absorption as factors delaying viral arrival at alveoli.
- Found a higher virus load in asthmatic patients compared to normal subjects.
Conclusions:
- The study provides insights into coronavirus propagation dynamics within the respiratory tract.
- Results highlight the impact of physiological factors on virus transmission and severity.
- The model demonstrates potential for understanding disease progression and informing therapeutic strategies, especially for vulnerable groups like asthmatics.
