About this Research Topic
Numerous developments in molecular biology have led to an explosive growth in the knowledge underlying mechanisms of carcinogenesis, cell signalling, tumor progression and development of metastasis. However, cure of cancer is still hampered by the inherited capacity of tumors to become resistant to standard therapies, to metastasize from their initial location and to proliferate in other tissue compartments. Radiotherapy is one of the main treatment modalities to achieve locoregional tumor control. However, the treatment of distant metastases further remains to be a challenge. In this special topic we are interested to elucidate immunological aspects which are initiated and affected by radiotherapy. We also aim to describe the development of innovative immunological strategies from a preclinical stage to clinical application which could be combined with standard radiotherapeutic approaches. A special interest will also deal with the effects of radiotherapy on tumor initiating cells as well as on the tumor microenvironment. Last but not least the effects of different irradiation sources and qualities such as photones, protones and heavy ions will be analyzed with respect to immunological outcome.
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