Simulated brain tumor growth dynamics using a three-dimensional cellular automaton

We have developed a novel and versatile three-dimensional cellular automato n model of brain tumor growth. We show that macroscopic tumor behavior can be realistically modeled using microscopic parameters. Using only four para meters, this model simulates Gompertzian growth for a tumor growing over ne arly three orders of magnitude in radius. It also predicts the composition and dynamics of the tumor at selected time points in agreement with medical literature. We also demonstrate the flexibility of the model by showing th e emergence, and eventual dominance, of a second tumor clone with a differe nt genotype. The model incorporates several important and novel features, b oth in the rules governing the model and in the underlying structure of the model. Among these are a new definition of how to model proliferative and non-proliferative cells, an isotropic lattice, and an adaptive grid lattice . (C) 2000 Academic Press.