Chain Modeling of Molecular Communications for Body Area Network

Sensors (Basel). 2019 Jan 18;19(2):395. doi: 10.3390/s19020395.

Abstract

Molecular communications provide an attractive opportunity to precisely regulate biological signaling in nano-medicine applications of body area networks. In this paper, we utilize molecular communication tools to interpret how neural signals are generated in response to external stimuli. First, we propose a chain model of molecular communication system by considering three types of biological signaling through different communication media. Second, communication models of hormonal signaling, Ca 2 + signaling and neural signaling are developed based on existing knowledge. Third, an amplify-and-forward relaying mechanism is proposed to connect different types of signaling. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed communication system facilitates the information exchange between the neural system and nano-machines, and suggests that proper adjustment can optimize the communication system performance.

Keywords: Ca2+ signaling; body area network; chain modeling; hormonal signaling; molecular communication; neural signaling.

MeSH terms

  • Astrocytes / metabolism
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Calcium Signaling
  • Computer Simulation
  • Gap Junctions / metabolism
  • Hormones / metabolism
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • Hormones
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Calcium