Modeling the hallmarks of avascular tumors

Abstract

We present a stochastic computational model of avascular tumors, emphasizing the detailed implementation of the first four so-called hallmarks of cancer: self-sufficiency in growth factors, resistance to growth inhibitors, avoidance of apoptosis, and unlimited growth potential. Our goal is to provide a foundational understanding of the first steps of cancer malignancy while addressing modeling uncertainties, thus bringing us closer to a first-principles grasp of this process. Preliminary numerical simulations illustrate the comprehensiveness of our perspective.