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A mathematical framework for predicting oxygen transport and vessel remodeling in tumors
Author(s) -
Munn Lance L,
Kamoun Walid,
Tyrrell James Alex
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.24.1_supplement.750.3
Subject(s) - blood flow , vegf receptors , blood vessel , blood stream , process (computing) , tumor microenvironment , cancer research , neuroscience , biology , medicine , pathology , tumor cells , microbiology and biotechnology , computer science , operating system
During resolution of wound healing, endothelial cells in the immature networks respond to blood forces, re‐organizing locally to optimize the network globally. Some segments dilate, while others are pruned, and eventually, a stable configuration is reached. In contrast, tumor blood vessels are chronically immature, probably due to high levels of VEGF in the microenvironment. Interestingly, many anti‐VEGF therapies can cause maturation or stabilization of tumor blood vessels through a process resembling adaptive remodeling of networks in wounds. Unfortunately this effect is temporary, and very little is known about how it affects the distribution of blood flow and the transport of nutrients and drugs into the tumor. In general, remodeling depends on blood shear forces, transvascular pressure as well as growth factors such as VEGF. To provide an analytical framework for understanding this process, we have developed a mathematical model, supported by multi‐ parameter imaging methodology, that incorporates the necessary elements for predicting the transport of nutrients and drugs throughout tumor vessels and tissue, as well as the adaptive remodeling of the blood vessel network. Funded by R01HL064240.