Abstract: Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)* requires prophylactic colectomy** by age 20-30, with significant quality-of-life consequences. Current alternatives offer limited efficacy. We explore endoscopic FLASH radiotherapy*** using laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) [1] as a potential alternative approach.
Recent work demonstrated 100-keV electron generation using microcapillary targets at near-critical density [2], where the acceleration length can be extremely short (micron to millimeter scale), suitable for medical devices. This was achieved with moderate laser intensities (10¹⁶-10¹⁸ W/cm²), indicating feasibility for catheter-scale accelerators.
We propose investigating solid-state target configurations including metal-coated microchannel plates, carbon nanotube arrays, and other nanostructured surfaces to optimize electron generation. Our CPC;Apc mouse model provides a platform for validation studies.
We seek input on experimental designs and target materials for achieving therapeutic electron energies in endoscopic-compatible dimensions. This seminar aims to explore how laser-plasma interactions in structured media might be applied to medical challenges, from FAP to cardiac arrhythmias and other proliferative disorders****.
References:
[1] T. Tajima and J. M. Dawson, Phys. Rev. Lett. 43, 267 (1979).
[2] M. Mori et al., AIP Advances 14, 035153 (2024).
Medical Terms:
*FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis): A hereditary condition where hundreds of polyps (small growths) form in the colon, with ~100% cancer risk if untreated
**Prophylactic colectomy: Preventive surgical removal of the entire colon
***FLASH radiotherapy: Ultra-high dose rate radiation (>40 Gy/s) that spares normal tissue while maintaining tumor control
****Proliferative disorders: Conditions characterized by abnormal cell multiplication, including both benign (non-cancerous) and pre-malignant growths