Synergistic Effects of Particle Therapy and Conventional Radiotherapy

This Research Topic is dedicated to exploring the synergistic effects of particle therapy and conventional radiotherapy, two pivotal modalities in the treatment of cancer. While each modality offers distinct benefits, their integration can potentially enhance therapeutic efficacy and improve patient outcomes. Particle therapy, particularly with protons and heavier ions like carbon, allows for precise targeting of tumors with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue. On the other hand, conventional radiotherapy remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment due to its accessibility and effectiveness. This issue aims to serve as a global platform for discussing innovative approaches that combine these therapies. It will feature contributions from leading researchers and clinicians who are at the forefront of developing and implementing these combined treatments. The focus will be on recent advancements, challenges overcome, and the potential that these integrated approaches hold for the future of oncology.

The primary goal of this Research Topic is to address the critical challenge of optimizing cancer treatment through the synergistic integration of particle therapy and conventional radiotherapy. This approach seeks to maximize treatment efficacy and minimize adverse effects, thereby enhancing clinical outcomes and patient safety. The issue will highlight how combining these therapies leads to more precise and effective treatments by showcasing recent advances and innovative research. Contributors will explore a range of topics including technological breakthroughs, results of clinical trials, comparative analyses, and theoretical modeling. Furthermore, this issue aims to deepen understanding of the biophysical interactions at play, which is vital for the continued refinement and customization of treatment protocols. Through detailed reviews, case studies, and original research, it will offer valuable insights into the adaptation of these combined modalities across various cancer types, illustrating both successes and challenges. Ultimately, this Topic strives to foster ongoing research and dialogue within the oncology community, setting the stage for future advancements in integrated cancer therapies.

This Research Topic invites contributions focusing on the development, application, and evaluation of combined particle therapy and conventional radiotherapy. Authors are encouraged to submit original research articles, reviews, and case studies that demonstrate innovative research, clinical applications, and the impact of combining particle therapy and conventional radiotherapy on cancer treatment and patient outcomes. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:
● Biological and physical mechanisms of synergy between particle therapy and conventional radiotherapy;
● Dosimetric comparisons and optimization of combined treatment plans;
● Clinical studies and trials evaluating combined therapy approaches;
● Advances in treatment planning and delivery techniques;
● Impact of combined therapy on patient quality of life and long-term outcomes;
● Case studies demonstrating successful implementation of combined therapies;
● Ethical and regulatory considerations in the use of combined radiotherapy modalities.

Please note: Manuscripts consisting solely of bioinformatics or computational analysis of public genomic or transcriptomic databases which are not accompanied by validation (independent cohort or biological validation in vitro or in vivo) are out of scope for this section and will not be accepted as part of this Research Topic.

Keywords: Particle therapy, conventional radiotherapy, synergy, cancer treatment, radiation biology, clinical outcomes, dosimetry, treatment planning

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.