Perspective, J Phys Res Appl Vol: 8 Issue: 1

Alpha Decay and Radiation Therapy uses in Medicine and Cancer Treatment

Shuai Han^*

¹Department of Physics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China

*Corresponding Author: Shuai Han,
Department of Physics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
E-mail: 132567436an@shi.cn

Received date: 20 February, 2024, Manuscript No. JPRA-24-130821;

Editor assigned date: 22 February, 2024, PreQC No. JPRA-24-130821 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 07 March, 2024, QC No. JPRA-24-130821;

Revised date: 14 March, 2024, Manuscript No. JPRA-24-130821 (R);

Published date: 21 March, 2024 DOI: 10.4172/JPRA.1000095.

Citation: Han S (2024) Alpha Decay and Radiation Therapy uses in Medicine and Cancer Treatment. J Phys Res Appl 8:1.

Description

Alpha decay, a form of radioactive decay in which an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons, has found important applications in the field of medicine, particularly in radiation therapy for cancer treatment. The unique properties of alpha particles, including their high linear energy transfer and limited range in tissue, make them valuable tools for targeting cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Alpha decay occurs when a nucleus undergoes a spontaneous transformation, emitting an alpha particle and transforming into a nucleus with a lower atomic number. The emitted alpha particle, also known as a helium-4 nucleus, carries a significant amount of kinetic energy, typically in the range of a few MeV (Million electron Volts). Due to its relatively large mass and charge, the alpha particle interacts strongly with surrounding matter, depositing its energy over a short distance.

In the context of radiation therapy, the high Linear Energy Transfer (LET) of alpha particles is advantageous for delivering a potent dose of radiation to cancerous cells while sparing adjacent healthy tissue. Additionally, the limited range of alpha particles in tissue ensures that the radiation is localized, minimizing the risk of collateral damage to surrounding organs and structures. Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the management of cancer, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Alpha particle-emitting radionuclides, such as radium-223 and actinium-225, have emerged as promising agents for Targeted Alpha Therapy (TAT), a form of internal radiation therapy that delivers alpha particles directly to cancer cells.

One example of alpha decay's application in cancer treatment is the use of radium-223 dichloride (Xofigo) for the treatment of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC). Radium-223 selectively targets areas of bone metastases, where it emits alpha particles that damage cancer cells' DNA, leading to cell death. Clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in overall survival and quality of life for patients with mCRPC treated with radium-223. Another promising application of alpha decay in cancer therapy is targeted alpha therapy for Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs). Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) using alpha particle-emitting radionuclides such as actinium-225 and thorium-227 has shown efficacy in treating NETs expressing somatostatin receptors. The high LET of alpha particles enhances tumor cell killing while minimizing damage to normal tissues, offering a promising therapeutic approach for patients with advanced NETs.

Despite its other roles, alpha particle therapy faces several challenges, including limited availability of suitable radionuclides, concerns about radiation safety and handling, and the need for improved targeting strategies to maximize therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols, assess long-term outcomes, and identify biomarkers for patient selection and response monitoring. Advancements in targeted alpha therapy, including the development of novel radionuclides, improvement of radiolabeling techniques, and refinement of dosimetry models, hold promise for expanding the applications of alpha decay in cancer treatment. Additionally, ongoing efforts to combine alpha particle therapy with other treatment modalities, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies, may further enhance therapeutic outcomes and improve patient survival rates.

As research in targeted alpha therapy continues to advance, alpha particle-emitting radionuclides hold promise for improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with a variety of cancers. By harnessing the power of alpha decay, clinicians and researchers are paving the way for more effective and personalized cancer treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes and survival rates in the fight against cancer.