The state of the art of preclinical precision irradiation

With the advent of preclinical radiation research platforms, many radiotherapy research centers are now able to investigate the radiation response of tumors and normal tissues in small animal models, possibly in combination with other treatment modalities. These research platforms are capable of mimicking human radiotherapy more closely than older technologies. To facilitate the optimal use of these precision irradiators in combination with various small animal imaging devices, and to maximize the impact of the associated research, the ESTRO committee on coordinating guidelines ACROP (Advisory Committee in Radiation Oncology Practice) has commissioned a report to review the state of the art of the technology used in this new field of research, and to issue recommendations.

This paper discusses the combination of preclinical precision irradiation systems, small animal imaging (CT, MRI, PET, SPECT, bioluminescence) systems, image registration, treatment planning, and data processing. It also provides some guidelines for reporting on studies.

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Verhaegen, Frank, Ludwig Dubois, Stefano Gianolini, Mark A. Hill, Christian P. Karger, Kirsten Lauber, Kevin M. Prise, David Sarrut, Daniela Thorwarth, Christian Vanhove, Boris Vojnovic, Robert Weersink, Jan J. Wilkens, and Dietmar Georg. 2018. “ESTRO ACROP : Technology for Precision Small Animal Radiotherapy Research : Optimal Use and Challenges.” RADIOTHERAPY AND ONCOLOGY 126 (3): 471–478.

http://doi.org/10.1016/j.radonc.2017.11.015