Computational models of the primary cilium and endothelial mechanotransmission

In endothelial cells (ECs), the mechanotransduction of fluid shear stress is partially dependent on the transmission of force from the fluid into the cell (mechanotransmission). The role of the primary cilium in EC mechanotransmission is not yet known. To motivate a framework towards quantifying cilia contribution to EC mechanotransmission, we have reviewed mechanical models of both (1) the primary cilium (three-dimensional and lower-dimensional) and (2) whole ECs (finite element, non-finite element, and tensegrity). Both the primary cilia and whole EC models typically incorporate fluid-induced wall shear stress and spatial geometry based on experimentally acquired images of cells. This paper presents future modelling directions as well as the major goals towards integrating primary cilium models into a multi-component EC mechanical model. Finally, we outline how an integrated cilium-EC model can be used to better understand mechanotransduction in the endothelium.