Simulation of tumor growth with Cellular Automaton

Cellular Automaton theory has proved to be an innovative and reliable tool in describing complex processes such as tumor growth. This was shown in previous studies and will be extended here with the intention of simulating the tumor's response to radiation therapy. Computation of such models compared with clinical data from oncology could provide a deeper understanding of tumor dynamics. The model presented in this paper bases on an inhomogeneous oxygen environment. Therefore an arterial tree serves as input for the oxygen distribution that is calculated by a diffusion process. The oxygen distribution on the other hand serves as input for the cellular automaton which governs the growth of the simulated tumor. Angiogenesis is introduced by subsequent modification of the vascular network. The parameters are fine-tuned in order to attain the pattern of Gompertzian growth, which is very well documented in clinical studies. The model presented here can be used to simulate tumor growth and it's response to radiation therapy. Comparison with clinical data can lead to a more detailed understanding of tumor dynamics and their response to radiation therapy.