Creating new tools for advanced cancer radiation therapy
Official title: Development of Novel Heterogeneous Range Modulators for FLASH Particle Therapy
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10952781 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to improve FLASH proton therapy, a special cancer treatment that delivers quick bursts of radiation, to make it work better for patients by targeting tumors more precisely and reducing harm to healthy tissues, which could lead to faster treatments with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 7, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $403,219 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA294634-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952781 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with deep-seated tumors who are undergoing proton therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cancer or those whose tumors are not suitable for proton therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing novel modulators for FLASH proton therapy, a cutting-edge cancer treatment that uses ultra-high dose rates of radiation. By integrating these modulators with existing proton therapy systems, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of tumor targeting while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The approach involves preclinical studies and clinical trials to understand the biological mechanisms and physical requirements for successful implementation. Patients may benefit from faster and more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments with reduced side effects for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with FLASH radiotherapy approaches, indicating potential for significant advancements in cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teo, Boon-Keng Kevin — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Teo, Boon-Keng Kevin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.