Proton-CAT: A strategy for enhanced proton therapy

Abstract

We present a nitrogen-targeting Proton-Carbon-Alpha-Therapy method, abbreviated as Proton-CAT. It produces carbon ions (12C) and α particles through nuclear reactions between protons and nitrogen-15 (15N), thus incorporating the benefits of carbon ion therapy into conventional proton therapy. Monte Carlo simulations validated the effectiveness of Proton-CAT, and the study specifically focused on the distribution of relative energy deposition. The results indicated that the presence of 15N enhanced the maximum dose level of protons, resulting in more effective damage confined to tumor cells. Statistical analysis of secondary ions has shown that the Proton-CAT significantly increases the production efficiencies of 12C and α particles. Furthermore, it has been revealed that elevating the 15N concentration significantly boosts the dose of 12C and α particles within the tumor region. The present work would contribute to the future development of proton therapy.