Improving proton therapy for cancer treatment using artificial intelligence

Online Adaptive Proton Therapy

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Arizona · NIH-11132246

This study is testing a new way to make proton therapy for head and neck cancer even better by using artificial intelligence to adjust treatment plans on the spot, helping to ensure that patients get the most accurate and effective care as their bodies change during treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Scottsdale, United States)
Project IDNIH-11132246 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) for head and neck cancer patients by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to adapt treatment plans in real-time. The study aims to address the challenges posed by anatomical changes that occur during treatment, which can affect the accuracy and effectiveness of therapy. By implementing an AI-driven approach, the project seeks to streamline the re-planning process, making it more efficient and less labor-intensive for healthcare providers. Patients will benefit from improved treatment precision and potentially better outcomes as the therapy adapts to their unique anatomical changes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing proton therapy for head and neck cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve the head and neck region may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatments, improving patient outcomes and reducing side effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using AI for adaptive radiation therapy, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Scottsdale, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.