Spatial structure governs the mode of tumour evolution

• DOI: 10.1038/s41559-021-01615-9
• Publication Date: 2021-12-23T17:03:07Z
• Authors: Robert Noble; Dominik Burri; Cécile Le Sueur; Jeanne Lemant; Yannick Viossat; Jakob Nikolas Kather; Niko Beerenwinkel
• Keywords: Branching (polymer chemistry)

Characterizing the mode-the way, manner or pattern-of evolution in tumours is important for clinical forecasting and optimizing cancer treatment. Sequencing studies have inferred various modes, including branching, punctuated neutral evolution, but it unclear why a particular pattern predominates any given tumour. Here we propose that tumour architecture key to explaining variety of observed genetic patterns. We examine this hypothesis using spatially explicit population genetics models demonstrate that, within biologically relevant parameter ranges, different spatial structures can generate four evolutionary modes: rapid clonal expansion, progressive diversification, branching effectively almost evolution. Quantitative indices describing classifying these modes are presented. Using indices, show our model predictions consistent with empirical observations types corresponding structures. The cell dispersal range cell-cell interactions found be essential factors accurately characterizing, controlling