A hybrid mathematical model was devised to obtain optimal values for bacterial doubling time and initial phage/bacteria multiplicity of infection for the purpose of reaching the highest possible phage titers in steady-state exponentially growing cultures. The computational model consists of an initial probabilistic stage, followed by a second one processed by a system of delayed differential equations. The model's approach can be used in any phage/bacteria system for which the relevant parameters have been measured. Results of a specific case, based on the detailed, known information about the interactions between virulent T4 phage and its host bacterium Escherichia coli, display a range of possible such values along a highlighted strip of parameter values in the relevant parameter plane. In addition, times to achieve these maxima and gains in phage concentrations are evaluated.
Keywords: Delayed-differential equations; Doubling time; Maximal bacteriophage titer; Multiplicity of infection; Probability.
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