Autologous Gradient Formation under Differential Interstitial Fluid Flow Environments

Fluid flow and chemokine gradients play a large part in not only regulating homeostatic processes the brain, but also pathologic conditions by directing cell migration. Tumor cells particular are superior at invading into brain resulting tumor recurrence. One mechanism that governs cellular invasion is autologous chemotaxis, whereby pericellular form due to interstitial fluid (IFF) leading migrate up gradient. Glioma have been shown specifically use CXCL12 increase their under heightened flow. Computational modeling of this gradient offers better insight extent its development around single cells, yet very few modelled. In paper, computational model developed investigate how may what necessary affect formation. Through finite element analysis using COMSOL coupled convection-diffusion/mass transport equations, we show velocity (IFF magnitude) has largest parametric effect on formation, multidirectional causes formation direction resultant which governed IFF magnitude, common treatments patterns spatiotemporal gradients, exogenous background concentrations can abrogate depending close source, there minimum distance away from border required for establish an gradient, finally highly dependent specific morphology.