Analysis of a breast cancer mathematical model by a new method to find an optimal protocol for HER2-positive cancer.

ABSTRACT

Treatment of breast cancer (positive for HER2, i.e., ERBB2) is described by a mathematical model involving non-linear ordinary differential equations with a hidden hierarchy. To reveal the hierarchy of dynamical variables of the system being considered, we applied the singular perturbed vector field (SPVF) method, where a system of equations can be decomposed to fast and slow sub-systems with explicit small parameters. This new form of the model, which is called a singular perturbed system, enables us to apply a semi-analytical method called the method of directly defining inverse mapping (MDDiM), which is based on the homotopy analysis asymptotic method. We introduced the treatment protocol in explicit form, through an analytical function that describes the exact dose and intervals between treatments in a cyclical manner. In addition, a new algorithm for the optimal dosage that causes tumour shrinkage is presented in this study. Furthermore, we took the concept of protocol optimisation a step further and derived a differential equation that represents vaccination depending on tumour size and yields an optimal protocol of different doses at every time point. We introduced the treatment protocol in explicit form, through an analytical function that describes the exact dose and intervals between treatments in a cyclical manner. In addition, a new algorithm for finding the optimal dosage that causes tumour shrinkage is presented in this study. Additionally, we took the concept of protocol optimisation a step further and derived a differential equation that represents vaccination depending on tumour size and yields an optimal protocol of different doses at every time point.