Modification of cell population dynamics by pulsed electric fields

Pulsed electric fields (PEFs) may be used to control cancer cell population in vitro or to treat cancers in vivo. In both cases, understanding the impact of PEFs on the cell population is critical, particularly as a function of pulse parameters. Generally, cancer cell populations consist of proliferating (dividing) and quiescent (resting) cells. Mathematical models based on coupled differential equations that consider the transition of cells between the proliferating, quiescent, and dead states can predict the progression of cell population over time. Here, we examine the impact of pulse duration, field intensity, and pulse number on cell population growth. Ultimately, fitting the parameters of the mathematical models mentioned above to the measured cell population will provide insight into the long-term behavior of cell population and selectivity of PEFs with regards to proliferating or quiescent cells.