Enhancement evaluation of energy deposition and secondary particle production in gold nanoparticle aided tumor using proton therapy

Abstract

Background: Numerous qualitative studies have been carried out on the safety and clinical use of GNPs as a radio-sensitizer in tumors, using proton therapy and the results have been promising. However, some quantitative studies should be conducted in order to examine the factors affecting this method. Methods: Monte Carlo simulation was performed by MCNPX code to assess pristine Bragg peak, spread-out bragg peak (SOBP), and secondary particle production enhancement in GNPs radio-sensitized tumor using proton therapy. Results: The results show several percent dose enhancement within and its reduction after the tumor site. A little increase in neutron production and no deviation for photon production is indicated. Conclusions: Finally, it can be concluded that sensitization of a realistic tumor can be beneficial during the proton therapy.