Segun Oke - Mathematical model for estrogen paradox in breast cancer treatment with optimal control.

Abstract:
Estrogen is known to stimulate the growth of breast cancer but is also effective in treating the disease. This is referred to as the “estrogen paradox”.
We present a novel mathematical model that puts forwards some possible trade-offs, between the estrogen hormone and the tumor suppressor protein p53, that may lead to breast cancer or its remission.
The model consists of a system of differential equations describing the interactions between both dormant and active cancer cells, estrogen hormone and the p53 protein.
We perform a global stability analysis using results from differential inequalities and carry out numerical simulations.
We also consider the model with a treatment combination with high-dose of estrogen (HDEs) and p53 and perform an optimal control analysis.

Speaker bio:
Dr Segun Oke was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, and obtained his first degree in pure and applied Mathematics from LAUTECH, Nigeria. His second degree was in Mathematics from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and his third in applied mathematics from the University of Zululand, South Africa, where he majored in mathematical oncology. He has published both infectious and non-infectious research papers and has presented in local and international conferences. He is currently a post-doctoral fellow of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, University of Pretoria, under the tutelage of Prof. Rachid Ouifki.