Dr. Bora Akgün: “We are developing a proton therapy device that is being used for the first time in both the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”
Dr. Bora Akgün: “We are developing a proton therapy device that is being used for the first time in both the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”
The NOVO project (Next Generation Imaging for Real-Time Dose Verification Enabling Adaptive Proton Therapy) is a research initiative supported under the EIC Pathfinder Open program, aiming to revolutionize proton therapy. Proton therapy has the potential to cause less damage to surrounding healthy tissues compared to conventional radiotherapy; however, uncertainties such as the range of protons within tissue and anatomical changes during treatment limit this advantage. NOVO seeks to address this challenge by developing real-time dose verification (RDV) technologies and transforming treatment into a patient-specific, adaptive process.
The project is built upon four main scientific and technological components. The first component focuses on detector and materials technologies. When a proton beam interacts with tissue, it produces secondary radiation (such as prompt gamma rays and fast neutrons), which contains valuable information about the beam’s depth and energy distribution. NOVO is designing next-generation organic scintillators and neutron detectors capable of capturing these signals. In particular, neutron measurement is considered a key method for determining proton range with millimeter-level precision.
The second component involves imaging and data processing algorithms. Signals obtained from the detectors will be reconstructed rapidly and reliably to provide visual feedback during treatment. At this stage, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods play a critical role. NOVO aims to use deep neural networks to generate accurate range maps from noisy data collected by a limited number of detectors. This will enable immediate verification of whether the beam remains within the intended target area during therapy.
The third component addresses the monitoring of biological and anatomical factors. The oxygenation status of tumor tissue and anatomical changes between treatment sessions can influence dose distribution. NOVO plans to develop adaptive systems capable of dynamically updating dose plans by incorporating these variables. This approach will make treatment safer and more effective, especially for tumors located near sensitive organs.
The fourth component concerns integration and reliability. The project’s objective is not only to develop a new detector or algorithm but also to combine these components into a prototype system that can be integrated into clinical workflows. The goal is to reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4, meaning a system that has been validated in a laboratory environment with basic integration completed. The reliability, fault tolerance, and patient safety aspects of AI-based decision-support modules will be rigorously evaluated.
In conclusion, NOVO is an advanced research project aimed at making proton therapy more precise, safer, and personalized. The technologies to be developed will contribute not only to cancer treatment but also to the broader fields of medical imaging and radiation physics.
Son Güncelleme: 19:07:00 - 20.02.2026
