مقالات پذیرفته شده در نهمین کنگره بین المللی زیست پزشکی
Ultrahigh-Dose Rate FLASH Radiotherapy: Advancing from Preclinical Insights to Clinical Applications
Ultrahigh-Dose Rate FLASH Radiotherapy: Advancing from Preclinical Insights to Clinical Applications
Sahel Heydarheydari,1Seyed Masoud Rezaeijo,2SeyedehHadis Sajjadi,3,*
1. Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 2. . Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran 3. Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
Introduction: FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH-RT) is a novel technique using ultra-high dose rates for effective tumor control with reduced normal tissue toxicity. Despite its promise, the mechanisms are not fully understood, and clinical use is limited by the need for specialized equipment and further research. This review provides an overview of the FLASH-RT’s effects, potential mechanisms, current research, and future prospects for translating from preclinical studies to clinical applications.
Methods: This comprehensive review was conducted by searching multiple information databases like Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science from 2019 to 2024, and by identifying related studies through citation tracking tools in PubMed and Google Scholar.
Results: Recent studies have confirmed the FLASH effect in both in vitro and in vivo settings. FLASH-RT demonstrates significant potential in reducing side effects and managing tumors in animal models such as mice, pigs, and cats, with early human trials also showing promise. This technique utilizes ultra-high dose rates to rapidly deplete oxygen in normal tissues, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage more effectively than conventional methods. The rapid delivery disrupts typical reoxygenation and DNA repair processes, leading to fewer DNA damage sites and fewer side effects. Additionally, FLASH-RT affects immune responses, including TGF-β signaling, which may improve tumor control while protecting healthy tissues.
Conclusion: FLASH-RT offers significant potential to transform radiotherapy by rapidly delivering high radiation doses, which could enhance tumor control while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. However, its implementation is challenged by the need for specialized equipment, precise dose monitoring, and a deeper understanding of its biological mechanisms. Ongoing research and technological advancements are crucial for integrating FLASH-RT into routine clinical practice and fully realizing its benefits. Further investigation into immune response changes and mitochondrial behavior after treatment is essential for optimizing FLASH-RT.