Multiscale modeling of platelet adhesion and thrombus growth

Our hemostatic system, when called to action, depends on the complex arrangement of a tightly regulated and extensive network of molecules with versatile functionality. Experimental methods have demonstrated marked improvement through enhanced condition-control and monitoring. However, this approach continues to provide limited explanations of the role of individual elements or of a specific component within the entire system. To fill this void, multiscale simulations based on high throughput computing and comprehensive mathematical models are showing their strength in not only revealing hidden physiological mechanisms but also predicting pharmacological/phenotypical outcome in hemostasis reactions based on quantitative analysis. In this review article, we present up-to-date computational methods that simulate the process of platelet adhesion and thrombus growth, compare and summarize their advantages and drawbacks, verify their predictive power, and project their future directions. We provide an in-depth summary of one such computational method-Platelet Adhesive Dynamics (PAD)-and discuss its application in simulating platelet aggregation and thrombus development.