New technology for more effective cancer treatment. DoseVue, the first spin-off at SCK-CEN

The article discusses the development of advanced technologies to make high-dose radiotherapy more accurate and efficacious. The technique makes use of radiation-sensitive biocompatible microparticles with a diameter of a few micrometers. The surface of the particles is covered with ligands that bind to specific tumour receptors. When exposed to ionizing radiation, the properties of the microparticles change. Ultrasonic systems allow for detecting these changes, which affect the acoustic behaviour of the microparticles. Advanced signal processing algorithms are used for comparing acoustic signals before and after treatment. The dose information is encoded in the acoustic signals and is eventually converted into a three-dimensional dose distribution image.