A Mathematical Model of Cell Cycle Effects in Gastric Cancer Chemotherapy

A mathematical model is presented to investigate the relationship between drug order and treatment response in gastric cancer chemotherapy involving a taxane (either paclitaxel or docetaxel) coupled with flavopiridol. To model treatment effects, we simulate treatment by bolus injection and employ a pulsing condition to indicate cell kill as well as instantaneous changes to the cell’s transition rates. Cell population growth is described using an ordinary differential equation model whereby we examine the treatment effects upon cells in various stages of the cell cycle. Ultimately, the results generated support prior clinical investigations which indicate that for an enhanced synergistic effect, flavopiridol must be administered following taxane therapy.