Afternoon of research on FLASH radiotherapy and the brain

The Lundin Family Brain Tumour Research Centre brought together researchers based at CHUV for an afternoon of research on FLASH radiotherapy and the brain, in particular its potential use in the treatment of glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma is one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer that affects people of all ages and has a poor prognosis. We want to strengthen the effectiveness of radiotherapy and reduce its toxicity with the aim of increasing the survival rate and quality of life of patients with brain tumours.

FLASH radiotherapy is an innovative technique which consists of administering a very high dose of radiation within a few milliseconds. The first studies show that this approach makes it possible to better preserve the healthy brain tissue surrounding the cancer cells and therefore reduce side effects, which could allow to increase the radiation dose to the tumour to improve local control and, possibly, survival.

On April 26, more than 60 participants gathered for an afternoon rich in information and discussions. The researchers were able to share the progress of their studies and the promising results obtained so far. The development of the 3D FLASH machine at the CHUV constitutes a promising world first, but which requires the continuation of preclinical studies to better understand the mechanisms of action of FLASH radiotherapy and determine the most suitable modes of administration.

During this afternoon of interdisciplinary research presentations the objective of developing a clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of this new technique for patients with glioblastoma was put forward for the first time. FLASH radiotherapy indeed offers new perspectives for improving patient care and quality of life.