A multiphysics approach for modeling early atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Computational biology
• Biomedical engineering
• Cardiovascular research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis involves complex, multi-scale processes.
• Understanding early disease stages is crucial for intervention.
• Existing models often lack integrated multi-scale dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive mathematical model for early atherosclerosis.
• To integrate cardiovascular mechanics, low-density lipoprotein transport, and cellular responses.
• To investigate the influence of hemodynamic factors on disease initiation and progression.

Main Methods:

• Fluid-structure interaction modeling for blood flow and arterial walls.
• Coupled advection-diffusion-reaction equations for lipoprotein transport.
• Novel growth and remodeling formulation triggered by foam cell accumulation.
• Calibration and validation using a murine-specific case study.

Main Results:

• The model successfully integrates multi-scale processes in early atherosclerosis.
• Endothelial permeability is modulated by wall-shear stress, influencing foam cell accumulation.
• Pulsatile blood flow was identified as a critical factor in atherosclerotic development.
• Aortic wall compliance showed a minor influence on the simulated atherosclerotic process.

Conclusions:

• The developed model provides a robust framework for studying atherosclerosis dynamics.
• Hemodynamic forces, particularly pulsatile flow, play a significant role in initiating and driving atherosclerosis.
• The model can predict vessel lumen narrowing and adaptive changes in endothelial permeability.