Microtubules as a Key Target in Oncology: Mathematical Modeling of Anti-MT Agents on Cell Migration

Explore a comprehensive lecture on the mathematical modeling of microtubules (MTs) and their role in cancer treatment. Delve into the importance of MTs in cellular processes such as cell movement, differentiation, and division, and understand why they are crucial targets for anti-cancer therapies. Learn about the anti-migratory effects of MT targeted agents (MTAs) on cancer and endothelial cells at low doses, opening new possibilities in cancer therapy. Examine a cell-centered mathematical model that describes cell migration while considering microtubule dynamics and the impact of MTAs. Discover how the model utilizes fluid-based approaches, level-set techniques, Stokes equations, and Reaction-Diffusion equations to simulate cell membrane deformation and biochemical states during migration. Explore the role of microtubules in activating and inactivating Rho-GTPases family proteins. Gain insights into the numerical simulation techniques, including Discrete Duality Finite Volume methods, used to implement the model. Analyze the realistic behavior of simulated cells in terms of shape, speed, and microtubule dynamics. Investigate different strategies for modeling the mechanisms of depolymerizing MTAs like Vincristin, and observe the model's robustness in various scenarios.