Computer and Mathematical Simulation of Microbial Fermentations: The Choice of Models, Parameter Estimation and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Modern science is difficult to imagine without modeling. Fermentation is no exception, especially when dealing with quantitative aspects of bioprocesses, such as stoichiometry and the kinetics of fermentation, the assessment of the effects of multiple cultivation conditions, and attempts to improve the efficiency of a complex bioprocess or maximize product yield. Computer and mathematical simulations (CMSs) of bioprocesses help us plan experiments, saving precious time and costs of consumables by excluding redundant trials. They allow for the discarding of wrong ideas by comparing the observations with the prediction of the models formalizing specific hypothetic mechanisms. CMSs can present our results in a way that visualizes hidden processes and phenomena. Finally, CMSs are especially useful in bioindustry. Models can come in many shapes, sizes, and styles: stochastic and deterministic, Monte Carlo, and artificial neural network strategies evolved today into the game-changing concept of AI (artificial intelligence). The complexity of CMSs varies from simple regression to unstructured Monod-type growth models to gigantic genome-scale metabolic reconstructions. There are no ideal models; each one has deficiencies; and the only justification is their pragmatic value, whether they improve the understanding of a complex phenomenon, make research more efficient, optimize a bioprocess, etc. 

This Special Issue opens a wide gate for any genre, e.g., experimental fermentation studies involving CMSs, the methodology of simulations, including parameter estimation, reviews, opinions, and conceptual developments in this field.

Dr. Nicolai S. Panikov
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Fermentation is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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• computer and mathematical simulations
• mathematical models
• microbial fermentation
• parameter estimation
• bioprocesses