Mathematical modeling of intraplaque neovascularization and hemorrhage in a carotid atherosclerotic plaque

Abstract Background Growing experimental evidence has identified neovascularization from the adventitial vasa vasorum and induced intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) as critical indicators during development of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. In this study, we propose a mathematical model incorporating angiogenesis hemodynamic calculation microcirculation, to obtain quantitative evaluation influences on plaque development. A two-dimensional nine-point angiogenic microvasculature is generated based histology patient’s carotid plaque. The includes three key cells (endothelial cells, smooth muscle macrophages) chemical factors (vascular endothelial growth factors, extracellular matrix, matrix metalloproteinase), which densities concentrations are described by series reaction–diffusion equations. coupling intravascular blood flow, extravascular plasma transvascular transport carried out microvessel network. We then define IPH area using concentration in interstitial tissue, well across capillary wall. Results simulational results reproduce pathophysiological phenomena progression. It found that high density region at shoulder areas flow leaky wall neovasculature contribute observed widely validated both vivo MR imaging data vitro observations show significant consistency quantity ground. Moreover, sensitivity analysis parameters reveals extent can be reduced significantly decreasing MVD permeability neovasculature. Conclusions current could help us better understand roles microvascular