In Silico Intervertebral Disc Model for Pathophysiology Simulation

The patent creates a computational copy of the human intervertebral disc that replicates its complex mechano-electrochemical environment. The in silico model copies the disc's structure, including the annulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus, and cartilaginous endplates, along with their biochemical properties, allowing accurate simulation of human disc pathophysiology without requiring physical human tissue samples.

The patent introduces a computational model as an intermediary between in vitro experiments and in vivo human conditions. This in silico model serves as a bridge that translates simplified in vitro experimental data into predictions of human disc behavior, allowing researchers to study human pathophysiology indirectly through computational simulations rather than direct human experimentation.

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the experimental model from biological (animal species) to computational. By using an in silico model with adjustable parameters that can be set to match human disc properties, the system allows study of chronic degeneration processes over extended time periods while maintaining human physiological relevance through parameter configuration rather than species selection.

The patent replaces the mechanical/biological system of animal models with a computational system. Instead of relying on animal physiology to naturally develop chronic disc degeneration, the computational model simulates these processes through mathematical equations and algorithms, allowing controlled study of chronic processes without the limitations of animal biology.

The patent divides the complex intervertebral disc system into distinct functional subsystems: a solid phase subsystem, a fluid phase subsystem, and a solute phase subsystem. Each subsystem is modeled with specific governing equations appropriate to its characteristics. This segmentation allows the complex biophysical environment to be simulated accurately while managing computational complexity through modular organization of the mathematical models.

The patent transitions from studying isolated mechanical or biochemical aspects separately to a multi-dimensional approach that simultaneously models solid mechanics, fluid flow, and solute transport coupled together. This integrated multi-physics approach captures the true mechano-electrochemical nature of the disc environment by considering interactions across multiple physical dimensions rather than treating them in isolation.