Frontiers in Physics (Nov 2023)

Realization and dosimetric characterization of a mini-beam/flash electron beam

  • Jake Harold Pensavalle,
  • Jake Harold Pensavalle,
  • Jake Harold Pensavalle,
  • Francesco Romano,
  • Francesco Romano,
  • Mariagrazia Celentano,
  • Mariagrazia Celentano,
  • Damiano Del Sarto,
  • Damiano Del Sarto,
  • Giuseppe Felici,
  • Gaia Franciosini,
  • Luigi Masturzo,
  • Luigi Masturzo,
  • Luigi Masturzo,
  • Giuliana Milluzzo,
  • Vincenzo Patera,
  • Yolanda Prezado,
  • Fabio Di Martino,
  • Fabio Di Martino,
  • Fabio Di Martino,
  • Fabio Di Martino

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fphy.2023.1269495
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11

Abstract

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The use of the flash effect and mini-beams have demonstrated the ability to spare healthy tissue while maintaining the same effectiveness in controlling tumors. In this study, we present the implementation and comprehensive dosimetric characterization of low-energy mini-beam radiation therapy at both conventional and ultra-high dose rates. These beams possess important features that allow for a wide range of spatial and temporal parameter variations, independently or simultaneously, for both effects. This novel capability enables the performance of in vivo/vitro radiobiological experiments, which are crucial for understanding the underlying mechanisms and quantitative dependencies of these effects on their respective parameters. This understanding is essential for evaluating the potential clinical applications of the two effects both individually and in terms of their potential synergistic actions.

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