Preface. Distributed Parameter Systems in Immunology

Abstract

Mathematical modelling in immunology is about forty years old. This is a great age implying a symphony of experience, creativity and energy. Ever since, there is an increasing attempt to utilize the inherent precision of mathematics to enhance the analytical tools of basic and applied research in immunology. Despite numerous publications on application of mathematical models in immunology, the major communities of the experimental scientists and mathematicians are still disconnected. The genuine integration of modeling and simulation into the immunological mainstream remains a challenge.The immune system represents a complex and tightly regulated set of physical, biochemical and immunological processes occurring in time and space, the outcome of which is dependent on a large number of intra-and inter-cellular parameters. Coordinating a functional immune response requires tightly regulated communication between the cells of the immune system, which occurs in the form of cell-to-cell contact and the release of soluble factors that bind cognate receptors expressed by the cells. The functioning of the immune system involves feedback regulated spatially distributed proliferation,