Numerical investigation of leukocyte binding in the human vasculature

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This project is based around the theme of atherosclerosis, in particular how this disease develops and progresses. This topic is of great interest to the world over due to the significant pressure this puts on health and monetary systems. In this project we aim to build a frame work for studying the initiation of this disease via a coupled particle – stochastic binding model. In particular we aim to model the transport of blood borne particles in realistic carotid bifurcation geometry utilising SPH particle methods. This transport model for particles, in particular leukocytes, will be coupled to an endothelial cell receptor binding model in order to link the transport and surface biology. Validation of the receptor binding model is proposed via published experimental models of leukocyte binding in both a backwards facing step and axisymmetric expansion flow chamber. This investigation will allow advances in the understanding of leukocyte-receptor binding and potentially identify conditions which are adverse from a mechanobiological perspective.