Matrix algebraic simulation of mitotic cell selection experiments

Mitotic cell selection experiments are frequently utilized in investigations on the effects of various metabolic inhibitors and/or X-irradiation on cell-cycle progression of mammalian cells in tissue culture. This study describes a method for matrix algebraic simulation of these experiments which involves the sequential multiplication of cell-population matrices, growth matrices, and mitotic cell-selection matrices. Simulations are shown for progression in control cultures and cultures perturbed either by X-rays or 2-mercapto-1(beta-4-pyridethyl) benzimidazole. Application of this model will enhance the planning of these investigations and allow more rigorous testing of alternate hypotheses concerning the mechanisms of action of perturbing agents.