Project Goal

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BioDynaMo aims to develop a platform that empowers scientists to effortlessly generate, execute, and visualize agent-based simulations. Utilizing cutting-edge computing technologies, the BioDynaMo platform will facilitate simulations of unprecedented scale and complexity. This capability opens avenues for addressing intricate scientific research inquiries with greater ease.

Overview

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In the life sciences community, computer simulation is gaining prominence for modelling intricate biological systems. While numerous specialized tools exist, creating a high-performance, versatile platform represents a significant advancement. CERN leverages its extensive expertise in large-scale computing, supported by funding through the CERN and Society Foundation, to address three highly relevant societal needs: the fight against cancer, inequalities and dengue. Additionally, BioDynaMo is part of the CERN IT department’s efforts to build a Digital Twin Engine for Science, with its integration in projects such as interTwin, making it accessible to a wider range of researchers.

Highlights in 2024

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In October 2024, our work on ‘Calibration of stochastic, agent-based neuron growth models with approximate Bayesian computation’ was published on the Springer Journal of Mathematical Biology. This work established a robust framework for calibrating agent-based neuronal growth models and opens the door for future investigations using Bayesian techniques for model building, verification, and adequacy assessment.

There were also significant advancements in developing the distributed, MPI-parallel platform, with a publication expected during 2025.

By the end of 2024, a project led by the GSI Biophysics Department, using the BioDynaMo simulation platform, was awarded a place among the Top 10 scientific breakthroughs of 2024, by Physics World. This recognition highlights the project’s ground-breaking contribution to physics and computational biology, specifically in modelling lung cells to personalize radiotherapy—a leap forward in precision oncology.

Next Steps

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Our plan is to make significant strides in enhancing the overall usability of our platform, with a dedicated focus on refining user experience and robustness. We will actively extend our documentation to ensure clarity and accessibility. Furthermore, we will continue our commitment to advancing various use cases in biology and beyond, continuously exploring innovative solutions and contributing to the broader scientific community.

More Information

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Project Coordinator: Maria Girone

Technical Team: Lukas Breitwieser, Tobias Duswald, Maria Girone, Stavros Portokalidis, Eric Wulff

Collaboration Liaisons: Roman Bauer, Vasileios Vavourakis

In partnership with: University of Surrey, University of Cyprus