Model of Metastatic Cancer

In this model, we are attempting to model:

1. The selection of less aggressive phenotype
2. Eventual elimination of cancerous cell through rapid changing environment towards the end of the treatment
3. Combination therapy

We can use this model both to generate hypothesis, predict the progression of a modified adaptive therapy as well as get the most recent clinical research to healthcare professional as quickly and as easily as possible.  Moreover, we can use this model to provide information for patient that is easily understandable and applicable to their situation.  Higher level of understanding will lead to better psychological health and possibly better outcome for the patient. 

An initial model of the cancerous cell system (with 2 different cell types) will be created using COBWEB.

Initial cancer model with normal phenotype after 600 ticks. (TNM Stage I)

Initial cancer model with aggressive phenotype after 600 ticks. (TNM Stage I, Stage II)

Initial cancer model with normal and aggressive phenotype after 600 ticks. (TNM Stage II or Stage III)

A few cells that manage to “escape” the primary tumor and have the ability to live in another part of the body can establish another tumor elsewhere in the body.

Initial cancer model with normal and aggressive phenotype after 5000 ticks. (TNM Stage III)

Many different subclones of cells with specific phenotypes exists in the model at 5000 ticks.

Initial cancer model with normal and aggressive phenotype after 5500 ticks. (TNM Stage III)