Accuracy meets simplicity: A constitutive model for heterogenous brain tissue

Abstract

We present a general, hyperelastic, stretch-based potential that shows promise for modeling the mechanics of brain tissue. A specific four-parameter model derived from this general potential outperforms alternative models, such as the modified Ogden model, the Gent model, Demiray model, and machine-learning models, in capturing brain tissue elasticity. Specifically, the stretch-based model achieved R² values of 0.997, 0.992, and 0.993 (tension, compression, and shear) for the cortex, 0.995, 0.983, and 0.983 for the basal ganglia, 0.994, 0.929, and 0.970 for the corona radiata, and 0.990, 0.896, and 0.969 for the corpus callosum. This work has the potential to advance our understanding of brain tissue mechanics and provides a valuable tool to improve finite element models for the investigation of brain development, injuries, and disease.