Parameter estimation in a biological two compartment model. A computer experimental study of the influence of the initial estimate in the parameter space and of the model representation.

Parameterestimation in biologicalcompartmentmodels by optimization procedures is influenced by several conditions: the kind of mathematical representation of the model, the experimental conditions and the conditions related to the estimation process. In this paper the reliability of parameterestimation in atwocompartmentmodel is investigated through computer simulation techniques. In particular, the combined effect is studied of the initial guess in the parameterspace and of the mathematical representation of the model. The results show that there are some more favorable situations for the estimation. This analysis can help in proper planning of the experimental and computing conditions in which parameterestimation should be performed.