Detailed 3D imaging of the arterial microstructure for multiscale computational modeling of cardivascular diseases

Many cardiovascular diseases, such as aneurysms and arterial dissection, are associated with changes in arterial pressure, which alter the arterial wall composition, resulting in a vicious cycle. However, the precise mechanisms by which these changes drive disease progression are not well understood. This PhD aims to bridge this knowledge gap by integrating advanced, multiscale computational modeling with high-resolution 3D microstructural imaging. Detailed 3D images of the arterial microstructure will be obtained, including collagen fibers via cryogenic contrast-enhanced microCT (CECT) and synchrotron-based imaging, and elastin fibers and smooth muscle cells via CECT. These images will provide a better understanding of the composition of healthy and diseased arterial wall samples and will inform the refinement of a representative volume element (RVE) model that includes key arterial constituents and their interactions in a biofidelic manner. Next, the PhD will develop a multiscale growth and remodeling framework that couples the RVE model with gene regulatory networks and tissue-scale mechanics. This framework will enable the simulation of disease progression under varying pressure and arterial wall composition. The combination of cutting-edge imaging methods and biofidelic modeling will provide novel insights into arterial remodeling and disease mechanisms, guiding the development of targeted therapies.