The future of radiobiology

David G. Kirsch, Max Diehn, Aparna H. Kesarwala, Amit Maity, Meredith A. Morgan, Julie K. Schwarz, Robert Bristow, Sandra Demaria, Iris Eke, Robert J. Griffin, Daphne Haas-Kogan, Geoff S. Higgins, Alec C. Kimmelman, Randall J. Kimple, Isabelle M. Lombaert, Li Ma, Brian Marples, Frank Pajonk, Catherine C. Park, Dörthe SchaueEric J. Bernhard

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

69 Scopus citations

Abstract

Innovation and progress in radiation oncology depend on discovery and insights realized through research in radiation biology. Radiobiology research has led to fundamental scientific insights, from the discovery of stem/progenitor cells to the definition of signal transduction pathways activated by ionizing radiation that are now recognized as integral to the DNA damage response (DDR). Radiobiological discoveries are guiding clinical trials that test radiation therapy combined with inhibitors of the DDR kinases DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), ataxia telangiectasia related (ATR), and immune or cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors. To maintain scientific and clinical relevance, the field of radiation biology must overcome challenges in research workforce, training, and funding. The National Cancer Institute convened a workshop to discuss the role of radiobiology research and radiation biologists in the future scientific enterprise. Here, we review the discussions of current radiation oncology research approaches and areas of scientific focus considered important for rapid progress in radiation sciences and the continued contribution of radiobiology to radiation oncology and the broader biomedical research community.

Original languageEnglish
Article numberdjx231
JournalJournal of the National Cancer Institute
Volume110
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1 2018

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