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Published on: February 6, 2019
Radiation Therapy Personalization in Cancer Treatment: Strategies and Perspectives.
Marco Calvaruso1, Gaia Pucci1, Cristiana Alberghina1
1Institute of Bioimaging and Complex Biological Systems-National Research Council (IBSBC-CNR), 90015 Cefalù, PA, Italy.
Personalized radiation therapy (RT) moves beyond standard models by using patient-specific data. Innovations like hadron therapy, Flash RT, and immunotherapy combinations promise more effective, tailored cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Biology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Precision medicine is advancing systemic cancer therapies but lags in radiation therapy (RT).
- Conventional RT uses standardized models (Linear Quadratic) ignoring patient variability.
- Advances in radiobiology and technology necessitate personalized RT approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge and future directions for personalized radiation therapy.
- To highlight biomarkers, advanced imaging, and novel therapeutic strategies for RT personalization.
- To explore innovative RT modalities and combinations for improved cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in radiobiology and RT technology.
- Discussion of personalized approaches including biomarkers and imaging.
- Analysis of novel RT modalities (hadron therapy, Flash RT) and combinations (immunotherapy).
Main Results:
- Personalized RT requires integrating tumor biology and clinical features.
- Patient- and tumor-specific biomarkers are crucial for tailoring RT.
- Advanced imaging enhances RT precision and normal tissue sparing.
- Innovative approaches like hadron therapy, Flash RT, and RT-immunotherapy combinations show promise.
Conclusions:
- Personalized radiation therapy is essential for advancing precision oncology.
- Integrating biological insights, technology, and clinical expertise will enhance RT efficacy.
- Tailored RT strategies can improve tumor targeting and minimize adverse effects.
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