Modeling the repair of DNA strand breaks caused by γ-radiation in a minichromosome

The objective of the studies described here was the development of a mathematical model which would fit experimental data for the repair of single and double strand breaks induced in DNA in living cells by exposure to ionizing radiation, and which would allow to better understand the processes of DNA repair. DNA breaks are believed to play the major role in radiation-induced lethality and formation of chromosome deletions, and are therefore crucial to the response of cells to radiotherapy. In an initial model which we reported on the basis of data for the repair of Epstein-Barr minichromosomes in irradiated Raji cells, we assumed that DNA breaks are induced only at the moment of irradiation and are later removed by repair systems. This work gives a development of that mathematical model which fits the experimental results more precisely and suggests strongly that DNA breaks are generated not only by direct irradiation but also later, probably by systems engaged in repair of oxidative damage.