Biomolecular contrast agents for therapy success and dose monitoring in radiation therapy with proton or ion beams

摘要

A bio-molecular contrast agent (BMCA) is introduced into a biological organism such that the agent binds or reacts with target tissue within that organism. The BMCA is also signal-giving, and signal reactive, capable of being inactivated by delivery of energy thereto. By monitoring the decrease in signal strength of the BMCA, the actual dosage delivered to the target can be determined and monitored. The decrease in BMCA signal strength can also be correlated to the level of destruction of the target, allowing for determination of therapy success.