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Descrizione
Radiotherapy (RT) is a widely used treatment for various cancers. While it effectively targets cancerous cells, RT also damages the surrounding healthy tissue, particularly in sensitive regions like the central nervous system. This collateral damage poses significant challenges in maintaining neurological function.
Ultra-high dose-rate FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH-RT) has emerged as a promising advancement in oncology, demonstrating the ability to reduce normal tissue toxicity while preserving its potent anti-tumor efficacy—an effect known as the "FLASH effect."
In this study, we explore the neuroprotective sparing effect of FLASH-RT compared to conventional radiotherapy (CONV-RT) in healthy nervous tissue. Using animal models, we assess cognitive outcomes and the functional impact of these two radiation modalities.
Methodology:
• Radiotherapy Treatment: Whole-brain irradiation with a single dose (15 or 20 Gy) using an electron beam at either a FLASH dose rate of 257 ± 2 Gy/s or a CONV dose rate of 4 ± 0.02 Gy/s.
• Behavioral Assessments: Object Recognition Test (ORT), Y-Maze, and Visual Cliff tests.
We examined various neural regions, spanning sensory, motor, and cognitive structures. By longitudinally monitoring the animals, we found that FLASH-RT had a milder impact on healthy nervous tissue compared to CONV-RT.. Additionally, mice treated with FLASH-RT demonstrated a faster recovery, with behavioral and physiological parameters returning more rapidly to levels comparable to untreated/control mice.
These findings highlight the potential of FLASH-RT as a revolutionary approach in radiotherapy, minimizing neurological side effects while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
