A Quantitative Theory of Solid Tumor Growth, Metabolic Rate and Vascularization

The relationships between cellular, structural and dynamical properties tumors have traditionally been studied separately. Here, we construct a quantitative, predictive theory of solid tumor growth, metabolic ate, vascularization and necrosis that the relationships between these properties. To accomplish this, we develop a comprehensive theory that the interface and integration of the tumor vascular network and resource supply with the cardiovascular system of Our theory enables a quantitative understanding of how cells, tissues, and vascular networks act together across pie scales by building on recent theoretical advances in modeling both healthy vasculature and the detailed processes angiogenesis and tumor growth. The theory explicitly relates tumor vascularization and growth to metabolic rate, and extensive predictions four or properties, inclucling growth rates, metabolic rates, degree of necrosis, blood flow rates and vessel sizes. Besides these quantitative predictions, we explain how growth rates depend on capillary density and metabolic rate and why similar tumors grow slower and occur less frequently in larger animals, shedding light on Peto's paradox. Various implications for potential therapeutic strategies and further research are discussed.