Biodegradable Markers for Therapy Planning and Guidance

This project explores the use of biodegradable polymer matrixes as potential replacements to traditional metal radiation treatment planning markers. The hypothesis behind this proposed research is that biodegradable polymer markers can be developed which are detectable in both the planning phase (CT images) and delivery phase (portal imaging) of radiotherapy. We will develop a biodegradable, radio-opaque surgical marker made of polymer which can be prepared as a small flexible cylinder or injected as a quick-setting liquid that forms globules. This new marker can be used for image guided radiation therapy for breast and prostate cancer. Future applications can be expanded to other cancer sites such as head-and-neck and lung cancer.

Collaborator and project PI: Jason Sohn, Ph.D., Department of Radiation Oncology, Case Western Reserve University