Advanced computational workflow for the multi-scale modeling of the bone metabolic processes

Area of Science:

• Computational biology
• Biomechanics
• Musculoskeletal system modeling

Background:

• Multi-scale modeling is crucial for understanding bone metabolic processes.
• Existing models often isolate sub-models across anatomical scales, limiting comprehensive analysis.
• A unified approach is needed to integrate different scales for accurate simulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a fully integrated computational workflow for multi-scale simulation of bone metabolic processes.
• To address the limitations of isolated sub-models in current multi-scale approaches.
• To provide a validated tool for studying bone remodeling at organ, tissue, and cell levels.

Main Methods:

• Organ-level modeling using multi-body dynamics for boundary and loading conditions.
• Tissue-level modeling via finite element method for deformation and mechanical loading.
• Cell-level modeling employing agent-based simulation for bone remodeling under tissue loading.
• Validation using literature-based data for a human jaw bone remodeling case study.

Main Results:

• The developed multi-scale model successfully simulated bone remodeling processes.
• Simulation outcomes for muscle force, tissue loading, and cell dynamics were within literature-based ranges.
• The integrated workflow demonstrated accuracy at each anatomical level (organ, tissue, cell).

Conclusions:

• The fully integrated computational workflow enhances the simulation of bone metabolic processes.
• This approach improves the understanding of musculoskeletal system function across multiple length scales.
• The study provides valuable data for clinical decision support and industrial applications in bone research.