Multi-scale modeling of cerebrospinal fluid flow and transport

Interdisciplinary Areas: Data and Engineering Applications, Engineering-Medicine, Innovation and Making

Project Description

Understanding the flow physics of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is important for the treatment of various brain disorders. Reductions in CSF flow are associated with the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Abnormal CSF flow is also linked to normal pressure hydrocephalus, resulting in excessive accumulation of CSF in the ventricles, which can damage surrounding brain tissue. Despite its crucial role in the brain’s health and function, the affiliated CSF-flow dynamic is still poorly quantified and understood. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools can use patient-specific data to provide high-resolution information on CSF flow in ventricular, subarachnoid, and perivascular space [1–3]. Alternatively, CSF flow in cerebral ventricles can be measured with MRI (4D flow MRI); however, the limited resolution of this imaging modality makes CSF measurements particularly challenging [4 – 5]. The present project focuses on developing a high-fidelity computational tool to elucidate the mechanisms of CSF flow and transport in cerebral ventricles and perivascular space. MRI measurements of CSF and blood flow and structural anatomies will be used to inform subject-specific multiscale computational models. Successful development of the proposed CSF modeling capabilities will provide a framework for collaborative projects with clinicians involved in treating CSF-related disorders. 

Start Date

Feb 2025 

Postdoc Qualifications

The postdoctoral researcher should have a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or equivalent. The research requires a strong background in fluid mechanics (computational or experimental fluid dynamics). 

Co-advisors

Arezoo Ardekani, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, ardekani@purdue.edu, https://engineering.purdue.edu/ComplexFlowLab/
Vitaliy Rayz, Associate Head For Academics and Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering, vrayz@purdue.edu
https://engineering.purdue.edu/CFML 
 

Bibliography

[1] L. E. Bilston, D. F. Fletcher, A. R. Brodbelt, and M. A. Stoodley. Arterial pulsation-driven cerebrospinal fluid flow in the perivascular space: a computational model. Computer Methods in Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, 6(4):235–241, 2003.
[2] E. E. Jacobson, D. F. Fletcher, M. K. Morgan, and I. H. Johnston. Computer modelling of the cerebrospinal fluid flow dynamics of aqueduct stenosis. Medical & biological engineering & computing, 37(1): 59–63, 1999.
[3] M. Khani, L. R. Sass, T. Xing, M. Keith Sharp, O. Bal´edent, and B. A. Martin. Anthropomorphic model of intrathecal cerebrospinal fluid dynamics within the spinal subarachnoid space: spinal cord nerve roots increase steady-streaming. Journal of Biomechanical Engineering, 140(8), 2018.
[4] S. Yamada, H Ito, M. Ishikawa, et al., Quantification of Oscillatory Shear Stress from Reciprocating CSF Motion on 4D Flow Imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2021 Mar;42(3):479-486.
[5] M. Matsumae, A. Hirayama, H. Atsumi et al., Velocity and pressure gradients of cerebrospinal fluid assessed with magnetic resonance imaging. J Neurosurg. 2014 Jan;120(1):218-27.