Pathophysiology of cysts: An integrated genomic and biophysical approach

Cysts, common and ubiquitous pathological anomalies, are defined as cavities lined by a distinct wall and filled with fluid or semi-solid material. They result from complex mechanisms involving genetic alterations, biophysical forces, and tissue microenvironment interactions. Recent advances in genomics have identified key mutations that disrupt cell polarity, intracellular signaling, and fluid dynamics. Concurrently, biophysical models elucidate the impact of mechanical and osmotic forces on cyst growth and rupture. Multiscale models, integrating these approaches, connect molecular mechanisms to tissue dynamics, providing powerful tools to unravel the complex interactions driving cyst formation. These advances offer promising perspectives in terms of diagnosis, through genetic and biophysical biomarkers and therapeutics. This article provides an integrative update on the genetic and biophysical mechanisms of cysts and explores their clinical applications within a multidisciplinary framework.