Multiscale modelling and nonlinear simulation of vascular tumour growth

J Math Biol. 2009 Apr;58(4-5):765-98. doi: 10.1007/s00285-008-0216-9. Epub 2008 Sep 10.

Abstract

In this article, we present a new multiscale mathematical model for solid tumour growth which couples an improved model of tumour invasion with a model of tumour-induced angiogenesis. We perform nonlinear simulations of the multi-scale model that demonstrate the importance of the coupling between the development and remodeling of the vascular network, the blood flow through the network and the tumour progression. Consistent with clinical observations, the hydrostatic stress generated by tumour cell proliferation shuts down large portions of the vascular network dramatically affecting the flow, the subsequent network remodeling, the delivery of nutrients to the tumour and the subsequent tumour progression. In addition, extracellular matrix degradation by tumour cells is seen to have a dramatic affect on both the development of the vascular network and the growth response of the tumour. In particular, the newly developing vessels tend to encapsulate, rather than penetrate, the tumour and are thus less effective in delivering nutrients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Blood Flow Velocity
  • Capillaries / pathology
  • Capillaries / physiopathology
  • Cell Movement / physiology
  • Extracellular Matrix / pathology
  • Extracellular Matrix / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mathematical Concepts
  • Models, Biological*
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness / pathology
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness / physiopathology
  • Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic*
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Spheroids, Cellular / pathology
  • Spheroids, Cellular / physiology
  • Tumor Cells, Cultured