Abstract: An apparatus for performing nanoparticle-assisted external beam radiotherapy includes an X-ray spectrometer having an optical axis, an X-ray filter, and a mobile holding structure for holding the X-ray filter and X-ray spectrometer in a first and second relative position, and for switching from the first to second relative position while simultaneously positioning a patient body part in a target region including a target point. An X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray source crosses the X-ray filter before reaching the target point. The propagation of the X-ray beam forms an angle different from 0° and 180° with the optical axis of the X-ray spectrometer. The second relative position is obtained by inverting the relative positions of the X-ray filter and X-ray spectrometer relative to the patient body part. A method of determining an X-ray dose delivered at a region of a patient body using the apparatus is provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of nanodiamonds as drugs generating free radicals, in particular for treating tumors. The invention is based on generating free radicals on the surface of the nanodiamonds when they are exposed to radiation, for example ionizing radiation. In order to increase the effectiveness of the nanodiamonds, the nanodiamonds can be complexed with a radiosensitizing agent, such as a chemical molecule or an interfering RNA targeting a repairing gene.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing nanoparticle-assisted external beam radiotherapy includes an X-ray spectrometer having an optical axis, an X-ray filter, and a mobile holding structure suitable for holding the X-ray filter and the X-ray spectrometer in a first and a second relative position, and for switching from the first to the second relative position while simultaneously allowing the positioning of a patient body part in a target region including a target point; wherein: the first and second relative positions of the X-ray filter and the X-ray spectrometer are such that an X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray source crosses the X-ray filter before reaching the target point, a propagation direction of the X-ray beam forming an angle ? different from 0° and 180° with the optical axis of the X-ray spectrometer; and the second relative position is obtained by inverting the relative positions of the X-ray filter and of the X-ray spectrometer with respect to the patient body part.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of nanodiamonds as drugs generating free radicals, in particular for treating tumours. The invention is based on generating free radicals on the surface of the nanodiamonds when they are exposed to radiation, for example ionising radiation. In order to increase the effectiveness of the nanodiamonds, the nanodiamonds can be complexed with a radiosensitising agent, such as a chemical molecule or an interfering RNA targeting a repairing gene.