MARS research
Agent-based modelling for wound healing
State-of-the-art research from MARS Lecturer, Dr Alice Peng, is pioneering a patient-centred approach to wound healing.
Despite extensive research into wound healing, many aspects remain poorly understood. Even when patients receive the same diagnosis, their healing processes can vary significantly. Subtle variations, often too small to detect manually, can have a major impact on recovery.
This is where mathematical modelling can make a difference. By adjusting patient-specific parameters, mathematical models can predict healing scenarios that may not be directly measurable. This enables clinicians to design and refine optimal treatment strategies tailored to each patient.
This research uses agent-based modelling, which treats individual cells as distinct entities, allowing precise tracking of their location and activity. This model has already successfully replicated key clinical and experimental findings, demonstrating that early-stage wound conditions are strongly linked to long-term healing outcomes, including wound contraction and overall recovery.
The long term goal of this research is to develop a patient-specific digital twin - a virtual model that continuously monitors a patient’s wound. This technology could provide early warnings when subtle, hard-to-detect changes occur. Additionally, by simulating different treatment approaches, clinicians can identify the most effective strategies for individual patients whilst minimising complications.
This innovative approach brings wound care closer to personalised treatment, improving outcomes and enhancing patient well-being.
Featured research
-
Stopping the Spread
Model-based methods for controlling hospital infection outbreaks
-
Innovating the Material World
Advanced mathematical tools for developing stronger, more resilient materials
-
AI-powered Scientific Innovation
Accelerating scientific discovery with smarter Machine Learning models
