Protoacoustic Imaging for 3D Mapping the Bragg Peak in Real Time during Proton Therapy

Protoacoustic Imaging for 3D Mapping the Bragg Peak in Real Time during Proton Therapy, PI: Shawn (Liangzhong) Xiang Proton therapy is witnessing rapid expansion, with 279,455 patients treated globally by 2021 and nearly 110 centers currently operating worldwide. However, accurately localizing the Bragg peak remains substantial challenge. This can require extending the proton beam beyond the tumor, risking damage to healthy tissues, especially when organ movement occurs during therapy. To tackle these issues, this project will develop a novel imaging technology, protoacoustic imaging, designed to precisely verify the Bragg peak's location in real-time during treatment directly on patient. The initiative will create a dual-modality protoacoustic/ultrasound imaging system to: 1. Precisely monitor the Bragg peak's position. 2. Actively manage organ motion during proton therapy. The project's specific aims include: • Aim 1: Evaluate protoacoustic/ultrasound imaging for Bragg peak localization using animal models. • Aim 2: Develop a protoacoustic/ultrasound imaging system for clinical implementation. • Aim 3: Conduct clinical trials (Phase 0) to validate protoacoustic/ultrasound guidance in patients. Achieving these objectives will enhance the precision of proton therapy, allowing for accurate localization of the Bragg peak and real-time radiation dose adjustments, thus maximizing therapeutic benefits and minimizing risks to patients. Project Number: 1R01CA309212-01 | Fiscal Year: 2026 | NIH Institute/Center: National Cancer Institute (NCI) | Principal Investigator: Shawn Xiang (+1 co-PI) | Institution: UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE, IRVINE, CA | Award Amount: $648,049 | Activity Code: R01 | Study Section: Imaging Technology Development Study Section[ITD] View on NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11275882