Can the technology behind the Large Hadron Collider cure cancer?
In short: Particle accelerators are moving from fundamental physics to frontline medicine. This talk explores how proton beam therapy uses high-energy physics to target tumors with surgical precision, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Physicist Simon Jolly explains the mechanics of proton beam therapy, an advanced radiotherapy technique. Unlike traditional methods, it allows for greater precision in destroying tumors while protecting surrounding healthy cells. The UK is expanding this capability with two new NHS proton beam centers opening in Manchester and London to complement an existing ocular facility at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.
The discussion also touches on the future of the field, including the AWAKE collaboration's work on proton-driven plasma wakefield accelerators. Jolly, who leads the UCL High Energy Physics proton therapy research group, highlights the necessity of high-precision detectors to ensure these treatments are delivered safely.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How Particle Accelerators Are Used to Cure Cancer - with Simon Jolly
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