On a structured multiscale model for acid-mediated tumor invasion: The effects of adhesion and proliferation

Abstract

We propose a multiscale model for tumor cell migration in a tissue network. The system of equations involves a structured population model for the tumor cell density, which besides time and position depends on a further variable characterizing the cellular state with respect to the amount of receptors bound to soluble and insoluble ligands. Moreover, this equation features pH-taxis and adhesion, along with an integral term describing proliferation conditioned by receptor binding. The interaction of tumor cells with their surroundings calls for two more equations for the evolution of tissue fibers and acidity (expressed via concentration of extracellular protons), respectively. The resulting ODE-PDE system is highly nonlinear. We prove the global existence of a solution and perform numerical simulations to illustrate its behavior, paying particular attention to the influence of the supplementary structure and of the adhesion.