Computer simulation of neuronal toxicity in the spinal cord

The use of computers to model biological systems is a relatively new research tool. For example, it is possible to write mathematical systems to model neuronal activity involved in memory and learning and to model blood flow in any organ such as the brain. There is also an interest in designing computer-controlled machines to simulate human activities such as hand movements and vision. One of the most important uses of computer modeling is as a research tool to test hypotheses and aid in formulating new hypotheses. This enables the investigator to apply preliminary tests on several experimental strategies and select for animal experimentation the ones that are most likely to produce unambiguous and interpretable results. In the following article, we describe a computer model of neuron toxicity in the mammalian spinal cord.