Effects of Radiation on Protein

Abstract

Radiotherapy is one of the most common treatments used for solid tumors. Proteins are important components of all cells and tissues, and the main material basis of life. In the present research, more attention has been paid to the relationship between tumor radiotherapy and glycolipid metabolism, but less attention has been paid to the post-radiation effect of proteins. This article discusses the direct and indirect effects of radiation on proteins. The direct effects include changes in the structure and function of proteins, as well as to their synthesis and degradation, with the most specific effects observed on the post-translational modification of proteins. Indirect effects include changes in the whole-body nutrition level of patients, including the process of protein intake, digestion, absorption and metabolism. This article also addresses the impact of advanced radiotherapy technology, such as proton therapy and heavy ion therapy on proteins, and emphasizes the importance and feasibility of protein-supplying nutritional treatment during the "peri-radiotherapy period".