Biophysics in Particle Therapy
Recent technological advances have made cutting-edge particle therapy modalities more accessible to the general public. Light (1H, 4He) and heavy (12C, 16O) ion beams exhibit favorable therapeutic properties for cancer therapy, affording clinicians the power to deliver radiation dose to tumors with high precision and conformity while significantly sparing surrounding healthy tissues and critical anatomic structures. Through application of state-of-the-art delivery systems patients with aggressive radio-resistant disease can be effectively treated at facilities like the Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center (HIT).
The Biophysics in Particle Therapy group (BioPT) specializes in advancing various aspects of particle therapy to enhance its effectiveness and precision in treating cancer. Current projects span from developing biophysical models for predicting radiation effects to integrating improved imaging techniques into treatment planning and monitoring. Additionally, current research includes treatment planning strategies, microdosimetry, and novel treatment delivery techniques (e.g., arc therapy, mini-beams, FLASH). Finally, the group is involved in the development of a fast Monte Carlo dose engine and the exploration of applications of AI in particle therapy. A combination of these efforts with clinical investigations using large patient cohorts aims to link clinical outcome to physical, biological and clinical endpoints to utilize light and heavy ion therapy in more patient-specific treatment agendas.
Additional information:
Other news and available projects can be found here.
For more information, please contact Prof. Dr. Andrea Mairani via email with CV attached.
