Improving accuracy in proton therapy using advanced detectors

Real-time in vivo proton range verification in proton therapy with thallium bromide detectors

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-10767799

This study is looking to make proton therapy for cancer even better by creating special detectors that help doctors see exactly where the treatment is going in real-time, which is especially important for patients with tumors near vital organs.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10767799 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing proton therapy, a cancer treatment that minimizes damage to healthy tissue. It aims to develop thallium bromide detectors that can accurately verify the range of protons in real-time, which is crucial for effective treatment, especially in complex cases involving critical organs. By utilizing a novel detection method that combines Cerenkov light detection with semiconductor technology, the study seeks to achieve precise monitoring of the proton dose delivery. This could lead to safer and more effective cancer treatments for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing proton therapy for cancers located near critical organs, such as those in the head, neck, or liver.

Not a fit: Patients receiving other forms of radiation therapy or those with cancers not treated by proton therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the safety and effectiveness of proton therapy for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced detection methods for radiation therapy, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

DAVIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.