Researchers have created a three-dimensional mathematical model to study prostate cancer. This model illustrates the processes of tumor growth, genetic evolution, and competition among tumor cells.
Scientists at the University of Cologne have developed a three-dimensional mathematical model that explores various aspects of prostate cancer, such as tumor growth, genetic evolution, and the competition among tumor cells. This model may also be relevant to other types of cancer.
A research team, led by Dr. Yuri Tolkach from the Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, has examined prostate tumors and crafted a sophisticated three-dimensional model that accurately represents prostate cancer through mathematical modeling. The model captures tumor growth, genetic changes, and the rivalry between different subclones, which are distinct cell populations within the tumor. It reveals that the formation of aggressive tumors necessitates significant genetic alterations that provide immediate survival benefits to the tumor cells. These genetic changes must happen early while the tumor is still small. Furthermore, the study indicates that the arrangement of subclones within the tumor influences diagnostic methods, such as biopsies.
The research article titled “Tumour architecture and emergence of strong genetic alterations are bottlenecks for clonal evolution in primary prostate cancer” has been published in Cell Systems.
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men; however, the processes involved in tumor development, especially the formation of aggressive tumors, remain largely unknown for two primary reasons. Firstly, tumors are typically identified only after they have reached a significant size, meaning the lengthy period—ranging from 10 to 30 years—between tumor development and diagnosis is often overlooked. Secondly, advanced techniques like next-generation sequencing (NGS), which allow for an in-depth analysis of tumor subclones, are expensive and highly complicated to interpret. Consequently, few tumors worldwide have been thoroughly analyzed using these methods.
“Our research demonstrates that mathematical modeling can be leveraged to tackle critical questions about the progression of malignant tumors that have yet to be addressed, ultimately leading to clinically significant insights. Our model is adaptable and can be utilized for various malignant tumors,” stated Dr. Yuri Tolkach, a senior physician and co-leader of the study, from the Institute of General Pathology and Pathological Anatomy at University Hospital Cologne.
“Through our innovative model, we can accurately reflect the intricate spatial structure of a prostate tumor, which expands similarly to a root system within the tissue,” added Dr. Florian Kreten, a postdoc and co-leader of the study, who previously worked at the Institute for Applied Mathematics at the University of Bonn. He remarked: “Traditional mathematical models of tumor growth and evolution were inadequate for these complex structures. The unique growth mechanisms from a mathematical standpoint are intriguing and have sparked numerous new inquiries. Our work illustrates how biological phenomena can inspire advancements in mathematical research.” Looking ahead, the scientists aim to enhance the models further by incorporating interactions between the tumor and the immune system.
