Decoding the impact of radiation: Using advanced Monte Carlo simulations to model biological effects at the cellular level for more precise cancer treatments.

The Challenge

Particle beams exhibit an elevated relative biological effectiveness (RBE) compared to photon beams. However, calculating RBE is highly complex; current models, such as LEM and MKM, show uncertainties of up to 30%, and they have not yet been clinically established for proton beams. There is a critical need for more precise predictions regarding effects at the cellular level.

Scientific Approach

The project employs Monte Carlo simulations as an efficient method to characterise the effects of ionising radiation. The focus is on further optimising and experimentally validating complex chemical and biological effects within the Geant4-DNA Monte Carlo code, specifically assessing whether the induction and distribution of DNA damage are accurately represented.

Objectives and Impact

The aim is to facilitate the generation of clinically robust RBE predictions for protons and carbon ions. This will lead to a deeper understanding of radiation effectiveness at the cellular level, enabling more precise dose distribution modelling in cancer patient irradiation.