The Radiobiology Track at ESTRO 2026

Radiobiology at ESTRO 2026 will highlight how cutting-edge biological research is shaping the future of radiation oncology—from FLASH radiotherapy to immuno-radiotherapy combinations and the growing focus on normal tissue response.

We spoke with Paul Span, Chair of the ESTRO 2026 Radiobiology Track and Associate Professor at Radboud University Medical Centre in Nijmegen, about the key themes emerging from this year’s abstracts and the opportunities awaiting radiobiologists in ESTRO 2026 in Stockholm.

Chair of the ESTRO 2026 Radiobiology Track

What key themes have emerged from the radiobiology abstracts this year?

This year, the radiobiology track has received a record number of abstract submissions, with a notable increase from outside Europe, particularly from Asia. The range of topics has also expanded significantly, resulting in strong representation in areas such as the biology of novel irradiation techniques and normal tissue radiobiology.

Dedicated proffered paper sessions will focus on these timely and rapidly evolving themes, reflecting the strong momentum in the field.

Are any groundbreaking research areas or techniques being highlighted?

As in previous years, we continue to see an increasing body of work on combined irradiation and immunotherapy, as well as new biological insights into FLASH radiotherapy.

What stands out this year, however, are studies on normal tissue effects—particularly the skin-sparing properties of FLASH radiotherapy and the role of regulatory T-cells in promoting intestinal repair after treatment.

These findings may have important implications for improving both toxicity management and patient quality of life.

Why is it critical for radiobiologists to participate in ESTRO 2026, and how can it benefit their research and collaborations?

ESTRO 2026 represents one of the most important European forums for radiobiologists, offering a unique opportunity to engage not only with fellow researchers, but also with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists.

Because radiobiology is inherently driven by clinical questions, meaningful interdisciplinary exchange is essential—yet not always easy to achieve within individual institutions or more narrowly focused meetings.

How does the radiobiology track contribute to bridging basic science and clinical practice?

The radiobiology track is designed to be highly relevant not only to researchers, but also to clinicians, physicists, and radiation therapists.

Many of the findings presented are likely to influence clinical practice in the near future. A key objective of the track is therefore to strengthen the bridge between basic science and clinical application—encouraging discussion during sessions and continuing informally throughout the congress.

What aspect of this year’s radiobiology track do you believe will resonate most with attendees?

What is particularly striking is how radiobiologists continue to explore new directions despite radiation therapy being a well-established modality with over a century of history.

Approaches such as low-dose irradiation, partial irradiation, or lymph-node sparing may initially seem counterintuitive, yet they open up exciting possibilities for systemic immune responses.

The translation of these emerging biological concepts into clinical practice will be essential, and ESTRO 2026 will play an important role in advancing this dialogue.

Paul Span
Associate Professor, Radiation Oncology Department, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

Chair of the ESTRO 2026 Radiobiology Track