Exploring the Potential of Particle Radiotherapy: Helium, Neutrons, Carbon, and Other Heavy Ions.

Radiation therapy is an important therapeutic modality in the treatment of malignant disease. As radiotherapy remains one of the most commonly used modalities, there has been interest in increasing the therapeutic ratio of radiation by developing new techniques, such as IMRT or proton irradiation. Historically, radiotherapy has been delivered using photon or electron radiation, although recently there has been renewed interest in heavier ions, such as carbon, neutrons (fast neutrons and boron neutron capture), helium, neon, argon, etc. Generally, these heavy ions exhibit radiobiologic and physical properties that are theoretically advantageous, allowing dose escalation to the target while minimizing dose to organs at risk.

The use of heavy ions clinically is currently limited, with only 13 centers in the world using these particles as a form of treatment and several more in various stages of development. Despite the current limitations, there is excitement regarding the prospect of using heavy ions and is an important topic to develop.

This Research Topic will focus on particle therapy, with an emphasis on heavy ions, including carbon, neutrons, helium, neon, and argon. Pertinent proton literature can also be included. Both preclinical or clinical investigations will be considered, with the goal of providing an up-to-date resource on the current state of heavy particle therapy. We welcome the submission of reviews, mini-reviews, original articles, perspectives, case reports, and study protocols.