Mathematical model of atherosclerotic aneurysm

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Research
• Mathematical Modeling

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a primary driver of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), affecting up to 80% of patients.
• Understanding the interplay between atherosclerosis and AAA is crucial for effective patient treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mathematical model simulating atherosclerotic aneurysm progression.
• To identify biomarkers for assessing atherosclerotic aneurysm risk.
• To evaluate the efficacy of potential treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Development of a mathematical model using partial differential equations with free boundaries.
• Incorporation of multi-layered arterial wall structure and atherosclerotic pathophysiology.
• Analysis of cholesterol ratio and DDR1 levels as risk biomarkers.

Main Results:

• Identification of a 2D biomarker (cholesterol ratio and DDR1 level) for atherosclerotic aneurysm risk.
• The model demonstrates that anti-cholesterol drug dosage is critical for slowing disease progression.
• Combined anti-cholesterol therapy with anti-DDR1 injections shows potential for further risk reduction.

Conclusions:

• The developed mathematical model provides insights into atherosclerotic aneurysm progression.
• Cholesterol ratio and DDR1 levels serve as valuable biomarkers for risk assessment.
• Treatment strategies involving cholesterol-lowering drugs and DDR1 inhibition are promising for managing atherosclerotic aneurysms.