A four-dimensional simulation model of tumour response to radiotherapy in vivo: parametric validation considering radiosensitivity, genetic profile and fractionation.

The aim of this paper is to present the current state of a four-dimensional simulation model of solid tumour growth and response to radiotherapy developed by our group. The most prominent points of the algorithms describing the fundamental biological phenomena involved are outlined. A specific application of the model to a selected clinical case of glioblastoma multiforme is described and comparative studies are performed, using various exploratory values of the model parameters. Qualitative agreement with clinical observations has been achieved. Special emphasis is laid on the variability of radiosensitivity parameters throughout the cell cycle and on the influence of the genetic profile of the tumour on its radiosensitivity. The results of the simulation are three-dimensionally reconstructed. A valuable tool for getting insight into the biology of tumour growth and response to radiotherapy and at the same time an advanced patient specific decision support system is expected to emerge after the completion of the necessary extensive clinical evaluation.