DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/JF7N-7E78
Defense Date
2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Mathematical Sciences
First Advisor
Rebecca Segal
Abstract
A system of ordinary differential equations is developed to model the effect of fatty acids on chronic intestinal inflammation that is typical of a Crohn’s patient. Several murine studies have shown an anti-inflammatory response when specific polyunsaturated fatty acids are included regularly in the diet. It is believed that the fatty acids serve as a specific ligand that activates the Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor (PPAR) which is located on multiple cell types that are active in the inflammatory response. The binding of the PPAR results in a suppression of the inflammatory pathway. Results of the model indicate a muted inflammatory response when fatty acids are added regularly to the diet in mild to moderate cases of Crohn’s. Results of mathematical analysis show a stable fixed point with decreased inflammatory markers and pathogen levels when fatty acids are added regularly to the diet.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
July 2013