Three-dimensional flow assessment of microvascular beds with interstitial space

Abstract

AbstractMicrovascular networks take shape from the inherent flow, forces, and nutrient requirements of the tissue. These remarkably fluid flow-related forces are difficult to measure experimentally and are usually derived from flow values measured during experiments. Currently, there are no 3D vascular flow assessment tools and associated forces. Hence, we developed an algorithm to analyze microvascular networks, which can give morphological parameters such as the network architecture, individual diameters of the vessels, and their tortuosity. These parameters are then used to model the network bottom-up in computational software, including the vessel, endothelial lining, and interstitial space. We observe that including the endothelial monolayer with higher permeability than the surrounding hydrogel makes a marked change in the flow profiles and magnitudes. Further, we show that including a growth factor such as VEGFA helps microvascular networks mature, and the change in overall dimensions and shape of the network changes the forces they encounter. This tool can find varying applications, from in-vitro models to in vivo disease models.