Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.3325/cmj.2014.55.481
A computational model of cerebrospinal fluid production and reabsorption driven by Starling forces
Joel Buishas
; UIC Department of Bioengineering University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
Ian G. Gould
; UIC Department of Bioengineering University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
Andreas A. Linninger
; UIC Department of Bioengineering University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
Abstract
Experimental evidence has cast doubt on the classical
model of river-like cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow from the
choroid plexus to the arachnoid granulations. We propose
a novel model of water transport through the parenchyma
from the microcirculation as driven by Starling forces. This
model investigates the effect of osmotic pressure on water
transport between the cerebral vasculature, the extracellular
space (ECS), the perivascular space (PVS), and the
CSF. A rigorous literature search was conducted focusing
on experiments which alter the osmolarity of blood or ventricles
and measure the rate of CSF production. Investigations
into the effect of osmotic pressure on the volume of
ventricles and the flux of ions in the blood, choroid plexus
epithelium, and CSF are reviewed. Increasing the osmolarity
of the serum via a bolus injection completely inhibits
nascent fluid flow production in the ventricles. A continuous
injection of a hyperosmolar solution into the ventricles
can increase the volume of the ventricle by up to 125%.
CSF production is altered by 0.231 μL per mOsm in the
ventricle and by 0.835 μL per mOsm in the serum. Water
flux from the ECS to the CSF is identified as a key feature
of intracranial dynamics. A complete mathematical model
with all equations and scenarios is fully described, as well
as a guide to constructing a computational model of intracranial
water balance dynamics. The model proposed in
this article predicts the effects the osmolarity of ECS, blood,
and CSF on water flux in the brain, establishing a link between
osmotic imbalances and pathological conditions
such as hydrocephalus and edema.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
129952
URI
Publication date:
15.10.2014.
Visits: 1.733 *