2D cell cycle analysis.

This method provides a snapshot of the cell cycle stage of cells within a population. It relies on simultaneously monitoring DNA synthesis, through the ability to take up bromodeoxyuridine, and the total DNA content of the cells. DT40 cells cycle rapidly and 50 - 60% of cells in an asynchronous population will be in S phase. Cell cycle analysis is useful for assessing the success of cell synchronisation and for examining the response of cells to DNA damage in terms of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. However, some caution needs to be exercised since DT40 are deficient in p53, which plays a key role in the G1/S checkpoint.