enhancement evaluation of energy deposition and secondary particle production in gold nanoparticle aided tumor using proton therapy

Background: numerous qualitative studies have been carried out on the safety and clinical use of gnps as a radio-sensitizer in tumors, using proton therapy and the results have been promising. however, some quantitative studies should be conducted in order to examine the factors affecting this method. methods: monte carlo simulation was performed by mcnpx code to assess pristine bragg peak, spread-out bragg peak (sobp), and secondary particle production enhancement in gnps radio-sensitized tumor using proton therapy. results: the results show several percent dose enhancement within and its reduction after the tumor site. a little increase in neutron production and no deviation for photon production is indicated. conclusions: finally, it can be concluded that sensitization of a realistic tumor can be beneficial during the proton therapy.