Diffusion with evolving sources and competing sinks: Development of angiogenesis

Tumors ensure their long-time growth by emitting molecular messengers that induce cellular modifications in neighboring capillaries. These modifications are conducive to the enlargement of the vascular system feeding the tumor. This phenomenon, termed angiogenesis, is controlled by the diffusion and competitive trapping of nutrients and molecular messengers by several cell species. The number, location, and properties of these traps change continuously. The angiogenic process also implies that nutrient sources are time dependent. Starting from assumptions at the cellular level, we formulate a mathematical model that predicts the evolution of angiogenesis and the increase in the blood flow to the tumor. The model also predicts the emergence of directed growth and the possibility of therapeutical synergy. Simulations permit a careful analysis of the influence of the main parameters.