ENLIGHT: European network for Light ion hadron therapy

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics and Engineering
• Radiation Biology
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Established in 2002, ENLIGHT emerged from earlier European particle therapy initiatives.
• Initiated by CERN and ESTRO, it addresses key aspects of hadron therapy (HT).
• Funded by the EC FP5 programme until 2005, with ongoing coordination by CERN and ESTRO since 2006.

Purpose of the Study:

• To foster collaboration and information exchange in hadron therapy research and development.
• To support major research and development (R&D) projects and transnational access.
• To provide education and training networks for the hadron therapy community.

Main Methods:

• Organizing regular annual meetings to bring together diverse disciplines and institutions.
• Launching and managing R&D projects, including transnational access and education initiatives (e.g., ULICE, ENVISION, Marie Curie ITNs).
• Facilitating collaboration with other networks like the European Particle Therapy Network (EPTN).

Main Results:

• Strengthened the field of hadron therapy through collaborative projects and initiatives.
• Facilitated R&D and transnational access in particle therapy.
• Enhanced multidisciplinary education and training within the European HT community.

Conclusions:

• ENLIGHT has been instrumental in advancing European particle therapy research and development.
• Future efforts will focus on strengthening current research, education, and technology R&D.
• Continued collaboration with networks like EPTN is crucial for the future of hadron therapy in Europe.