Evaluating the Effectiveness of Geant4 Software in Measuring the Damage Caused by Ti48 Ion Radiation on Nerve Cells, in Comparison to the Biophysical Model and Empirical Data.

Abstract

Introduction: Presently, heavy particle ion radiation therapy is commonly utilized for the treatment of deep-seated malignancies, such as brain tumors. In addition to tumor treatment, these particles may negatively impact healthy nerve cells. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the radiobiological effects of these radiations on cells. Simulation studies that model the radiation of heavy particles and the exact geometrical configuration of nerve cells are essential and effective in evaluating potential cellular damage.

Materials and methods: The NEURON software was employed in Geant4 code to simulate an individual nerve cell (ID no: NMO 06176) and a network of ten neural cells subjected to bombardment by Ti48 ion particles at an energy of 600 MeV/u.

Results: The absorbed energy differs among several components of individual cells and neural networks, including the soma and dendrites. The absorbed doses from Ti48 radiation in individual nerve cells and dendritic networks surpass those in the cell body, and this ratio remains consistent as the dosage escalates. The decrease in the initial length of dendrites in both individual cells and neuronal networks intensifies with increased dosages.

Conclusion: The diminution of dendritic length due to Ti48 radiation is more significant within the cellular network compared to isolated nerve cells.