Fitzpatrick R, Stefan MI. Validation Through Collaboration: Encouraging Team Efforts to Ensure Internal and External Validity of Computational Models of Biochemical Pathways.
Neuroinformatics 2022;
20:277-284. [PMID:
35543917 PMCID:
PMC9537119 DOI:
10.1007/s12021-022-09584-5]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Computational modelling of biochemical reaction pathways is an increasingly important part of neuroscience research. In order to be useful, computational models need to be valid in two senses: First, they need to be consistent with experimental data and able to make testable predictions (external validity). Second, they need to be internally consistent and independently reproducible (internal validity). Here, we discuss both types of validity and provide a brief overview of tools and technologies used to ensure they are met. We also suggest the introduction of new collaborative technologies to ensure model validity: an incentivised experimental database for external validity and reproducibility audits for internal validity. Both rely on FAIR principles and on collaborative science practices.
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