102842Nanoparticle Semiconductor Devices for Pancreatic Cancer TreatmentClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThe project will develop nanoparticles of complex semiconductors that will be injected into tumours and act to enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy treatment of cancer. Radiotherapy treatment is often limited by the toxicity of the treatment to healthy tissues surrounding the tumour, meaning that simply increasing the dose is not an option. Xerion Healthcares novel nanoparticle technology will act to significantly enhance the effects of radiotherapy for the treatment of a range of cancers. The nanoparticles are injected into the tumour and interact with X-rays to generate cell killing free radicals. This project will focus on improving the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is the most deadly of the common cancers with a one year survival rate of 12% and a five year survival rate of only 3%. Over 9400 cases of this devastating disease are diagnosed in the UK alone, over 80% at advanced stages where surgery is impossible and chemotherapy ineffective. This project aims to significantly improve the prognosis of patients with Stage III and IV pancreatic tumours.