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Open source Digital Bacteria

FiReaNGeL writes "Scientists have constructed a software capable of simulating organisms at the molecular, single-cell and population levels. The program, called AgentCell, will soon be available, open sourced under a BSD license. "With AgentCell we can simulate the behavior of entire populations of cells as they sense their environment, respond to stimuli and move in a three-dimensional world". The researchers have designed their digital bacterial system in modules, so that additional components may be added later - "The hope is that people will modify the code or add some new capabilities". AgentCell has possible applications in cancer research, drug development and combating bioterrorism. Lots of movies and pictures are available, along with a detailed press release describing the program."

10 of 125 comments (clear)

  1. There are 10 kinds by smoyer · · Score: 3, Funny

    of bacteria in this world ...

    1. Re:There are 10 kinds by TheWhaleShark · · Score: 4, Funny

      Bacteria: It's the only culture we've got left.

      --
      "It never got weird enough for me." - HST (RIP)
  2. Poor server... by Cobra_666 · · Score: 4, Funny

    Saying "Lots of movies and pictures are available" in a Slashdot article is like a death sentence to the poor server running the site...

  3. This Is New? by Spencerian · · Score: 5, Funny

    It seems that Windows users receive free copies of stuff like this each time they connect to the Internet and get their mail.

    That, and news on free "sword sharpeners", if ya get my meaning.

    I remember the old game of "Life" that simulated growth with very simple rules. Sounds like the game has grown up.

    --
    Vos teneo officium eram periculosus ut vos recipero is.
  4. Great... by AnObfuscator · · Score: 3, Funny

    As if Windows didn't have to deal with enough computer viruses, now it has to deal with computer bacteria as well.

    --
    multifariam.net -- yet another nerd blog
  5. Let's not dis this development - by Progman3K · · Score: 5, Funny

    Bacteria may be the only culture some people have.

    --
    I don't know the meaning of the word 'don't' - J
  6. Re:What about us? by ScentCone · · Score: 4, Funny

    And just how do we know our entire reality isn't simply a large scale version of this? Is our universe simply the inside of a box? Does it even matter?

    Well, first, no - if we're in a giant box, and the laws of physics defined therein cause us to see and experience what we're seeing and experiencing, then... no. That's the framework of our universe. We can't operate outside of that framework, so kvetching about it isn't very productive.

    And second, you'll be getting the munchies very soon, I'm guessing.

    --
    Don't disappoint your bird dog. Go to the range.
  7. Digital disease by lilrowdy18 · · Score: 5, Funny

    Anybody know the cure for digital chlamydia?

    I networked with this infected computer and didnt have my firewall turned on.

  8. Pathogen games for the PS3 by CardiganKiller · · Score: 3, Funny

    "For instance, if you mix a pathogenic strain with a friendly strain, which one is going to win, and with what kind of speed?"

    I can't wait until this becomes an actual game:

    "Cell-Wars 3D. Engineer your own pathogens and destroy up to 5000 different types of organisms! Experience multiplayer action over the Internet in a race to be the quickest and most destructive pathogen.

    Be sure to enter in our annual contest. The winner will get to see their pathogen recreated in real life by our molecular engineers and injected into a mouse! Total insane action!"

  9. I can see them writing the press release now... by nanoakron · · Score: 3, Funny

    Alice: Yeah...make sure we stick 'combat terrorism' in there somewhere. That'll make sure we get the cash.

    Bob: Oooh ooh...and maybe the frontpage on some reputable internet discussion board *cough*.

    -Nano.