Cell cycle distribution was detected by flow cytometry, and quantitative analysis of the different cell cycle phases was performed in (A and B) L1236 and (C and D) L428 cells. In the MGCD0103 2 µM group, cells were treated with MGCD0103 at a concentration of 2 µM for 24 h, with DMSO as control. Fewer cells in the G1 phase were found in the MGCD0103 group compared with the DMSO group, both in L1236 and L428 cells; whereas more cells in the G2 phase were detected in the MGCD0103 group compared with DMSO treated cells, both in L1236 and L428 cells. Cells in the S phase were significantly increased in the MGCD0103 group of L1236 cells. Data are presented as the mean + the standard error of the mean. *P<0.05, **P<0.01, and ***P<0.001. DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide.