Non-linear model of cancer growth and metastasis: a limiting nutrient as a major determinant of tumor shape and diffusion

G.P. PESCARMONA; M. SCALERANDI; P.P. DELSANTO; C.A. CONDAT

MEDICAL HYPOTHESES

Harcourt Publishers Ltd

Año: 1999 vol. 53 p. 497 - 503

0306-9877

A new approach for modeling the spatio-temporal evolution of tumors is presented. To test its validity, a very basic model is considered, which, in spite of its simplicity, is capable of generating a multiplicity of morphologies and growth and migration rates. From an in vivo scenario of basic life processes, cancer cell proliferation is described as a competition for basic nutrients. The chosen mathematical treatment and simulation techniques permit a direct implementation of the local nonlinear couplings existing between the various cell populations and the free and bound nutrient concentration. A discussion of the results and proposed improvements and applications of the model is also presented.