The newly inaugurated MRI-guided proton therapy prototype in Dresden signals a paradigm shift in cancer treatment. This innovative system, merging a full-body MRI with real-time imaging and proton therapy, offers unprecedented accuracy. Pioneered by a collaborative team, including experts from medicine, physics, biology, and engineering, the integration of these technologies opens new frontiers in targeting cancer cells. The global significance of this achievement is underscored by international industry partnerships and the potential to revolutionize proton therapy worldwide.
On January 9th, 2024, a groundbreaking achievement in cancer treatment marked a new era in medical science as the prototype for MRI-guided proton therapy was unveiled in Dresden. This innovative installation, a result of collaboration among experts in medicine, medical physics, biology, and engineering, represents a significant leap forward in radiotherapy. What sets it apart is the integration of a full-body MRI device with real-time imaging capabilities with a proton therapy system, a global first. The inauguration ceremony, attended by Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer, took place at OncoRay – National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology.
The journey toward this scientific milestone began in 2019 when a predecessor prototype, featuring a compact MRI device without real-time imaging, demonstrated technical feasibility with the support of Sächsische Aufbaubank. Building upon this success, the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) took charge of financing the development of a revolutionary full-body MRI device with real-time imaging capabilities. The infrastructure and a substantial portion of the personnel required for this groundbreaking project were provided by the Dresden University Medical Center.
The primary objective of this collaborative effort is to enhance the precision of proton therapy for cancer treatment by utilizing real-time MRI imaging to monitor patients during radiation treatment. The unique combination of a rotating full-body MRI machine and a proton therapy system is a world-first, and scientific operations commenced in January 2024.
The distinct advantage of MRI over conventional imaging methods lies in its ability to visualize tumors with higher contrast, allowing for a clearer distinction between the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue. This improved visualization facilitates more accurate definition of the volume to be irradiated. Additionally, real-time MRI imaging enables the immediate adjustment of beam application based on any changes in the shape and size of the targeted volume between consecutive radiation sessions. Moreover, the ability to visualize tumor movement during radiation sessions allows for synchronization with the radiation application. The installed prototype aims to explore how the accuracy of proton therapy can be elevated through the use of full-body real-time MRI imaging.
The development of this cutting-edge system was led by the “Experimental MR-Integrated Proton Therapy” research group at OncoRay – National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, under the leadership of Prof. Aswin Hoffmann. Overcoming the technological challenge of integrating two systems—MRI and proton radiation—that operate with magnetic fields interacting with each other, the research group demonstrated the technical feasibility of simultaneous radiation and imaging using the prior prototype. Now, the new system is being utilized for the first time globally to investigate the potential of real-time MRI imaging in this context.
Prof. Hoffmann emphasizes the significance of the new prototype, stating, “This new prototype with integrated full-body MRI makes it possible to visualize moving tumors using high-contrast real-time imaging. Our work aims to develop a technique to irradiate tumors only when they are hit reliably by the proton beam.” He further highlights the flexibility of the MRI device, which can rotate around the patient, allowing for innovative patient positioning for proton therapy in both lying and upright positions. Future studies will explore the prototype’s benefits for mobile tumors in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis.
The prototype’s installation at OncoRay’s proton therapy facility in Dresden opens the door to groundbreaking research in cancer treatment. The facility, equipped with an experimental room adjacent to the treatment room for patients, facilitates interdisciplinary research by an international team of researchers dedicated to finding innovative ways to treat cancer.
The successful development and installation of the prototype were made possible through close collaboration with international industry partners. ASG Superconductors in Genoa, Italy, played a crucial role in manufacturing the MRI device, while MagnetTx Oncology Solutions in Edmonton, Canada, designed the rotating gantry. Representatives from both companies were present at the launch ceremony, highlighting the global collaboration that underpins such groundbreaking innovations.
Saxony’s Minister-President, Michael Kretschmer, emphasized the significance of the achievement, stating, “The inauguration of this globally unique combination of an MRI machine with a proton therapy facility marks a milestone for Saxony as a center for science. It is an example of the potential and knowledge available here.” Sebastian Gemkow, Saxon State Minister for Science, added, “The new prototype proves that even the impossible is possible. That is something we can be proud of together.”
Prof. Michael Albrecht, Medical Director of the University Hospital Dresden, highlighted the institution’s commitment to innovation in cancer treatment, stating, “The innovative leap that we are now making with the new prototype demonstrates that we are always at the forefront. A role we can only assume thanks to the positive collaboration with our scientific and industrial partners. This is the only way flagship projects like this are possible.”
The significance of this achievement extends beyond regional and national boundaries. Prof. Sebastian M. Schmidt, Scientific Director of Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, emphasized the institution’s commitment to translating research findings into practical benefits for patients. Prof. Esther Troost, Dean of the School of Medicine Dresden, expressed the alignment of the new prototype with the research goals of OncoRay – National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, aiming to improve cancer treatment through biologically individualized and technologically optimized radiotherapy.
As the inaugural operations commence, the MRI-guided proton therapy prototype in Dresden embodies the fusion of cutting-edge technology and collaborative spirit. The intersection of disciplines, from medical physics to engineering, has birthed a transformative tool for cancer treatment. This groundbreaking system holds immense promise for elevating the precision and efficacy of proton therapy, offering renewed hope for patients globally. The journey that began with technical feasibility now propels the medical field into a future where real-time imaging guides the way in the relentless pursuit of enhanced cancer care.
