[Cell-survival Curves - Determining Factors, Models and Concepts]

The cell survival curves depend on ''biological'' factors typical of the irradiated material (cellular type, strain, origin, position in the mitotic cycle, oxygenation, temperature,...) and on ''physical'' factors in connection with the radiation quality (high or low LET radiation) and with its application modalities (dose rate, fractionation,...). The influence of these factors will be reviewed as well as the different models and concepts used to interpret the shape of the curves. Their role in radiotherapy will also be recalled