Prediction of repopulation rates and radiosensitivity in human tumours.

An accurate prediction of response to radiotherapy would allow treatments to be modified for those individuals where a relatively poor response is expected with conventional treatment. Present assays receiving most attention are those for repopulation, radiosensitivity and hypoxia. This paper discusses our experience with the first two, together with relevant data from other groups. Attention is focussed particularly on correlations with outcome in clinical trials, and the accuracy of present assay methods.