Morphomechanics of tumors

Progression of cancers involves complicated and coupled interactions among mechanical, physical, chemical, and biological factors. Given the broad implications of tumor morphogenesis in clinics, we review the state-of-the-art morphomechanics of solid tumors, with an aim to highlight mechanistic factors that might potentially collude with oncology to drive cancer progression. Particular attention is given to theoretical modeling of morphological and structural evolutions, anisotropic growth, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis of tumors. Continuum and discrete mechanobiological models for predicting the mechanical properties and constitutive relations of cancerous tissues and cells are summarized and recapitulated. These recent advances not only generate new insights into biomechanical and biophysical mechanisms underlying tumor development, but also provide inspirations for clinical diagnosis and treatments of cancer.