"Mechanistic modelling of DNA damage and repair for Proton Therapy" - Michael Merchant (The University of Manchester)

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Date: 25 Nov 2020
Time: 15:00
Zoom link: ​https://cern.zoom.us/j/96432320445?pwd=MEg5c2I3NGRncEd1Sk1MR1J6dGhTQT09

Abstract

This seminar discusses how Monte Carlo track structure simulation codes such as Geant4-DNA or Topas-nBio can be used to go beyond linear energy transfer calculations to develop models of DNA damage using nanodosimetry. Nanodosimetry can predict the spectrum of DNA damage that occurs within Proton Therapy treatment plans. Understanding the physical qualities of protons that cause biological uncertainty due to changes in the proton relative biological effectiveness is important, but is only half the picture. Coupling DNA damage models to mechanistic models which simulate the DNA repair process can help us understand what physics processes lead to cellular outcomes in terms of survival, chromosome aberration, or other endpoints. This coupled model of DNA damage and repair can be used to calculate a biologically augmented treatment plan based on nanodosimetry, with potential for more accurate prediction of proton RBE than phenomenological models, however considerable biological uncertainty remains.