PROBLEMS, PITFALLS, PERSPECTIVES AND POTENTIALS OF QUANTITATIVE THEORETICAL-MODELS FOR CELLULAR RADIATION ACTION

The problem of quantitative mathematical models in cellular radiation biology is discussed in a general way. It is emphasized that there are a number of stages, starting from the spatial pattern of energy depos ition and ending with repair/misrepair processes which all need to be incorporated. Since different types of radiation commonly yield very s imilar dose-response curves a model which is only valid for one specia l case cannot claim general applicability. Interaction experiments wit h ultraviolet and ionizing radiation are discussed in this context. Al so the role of different experimental systems (microorganisms versus m ammalian cells) has to be taken into account. A number of current mode l approaches are discussed within this context, and it is shown that m ost of them do not satisfy the criterion of universal applicability an d can therefore not claim to give a 'true' picture of biological reali ty. Shouldered survival curves are taken as an example to illustrate t hese points in a more specific way.