A new study by scientists at the University of Manchester, published in Clinical Cancer Research (13 October 2025), has identified genetic variants that make some prostate cancer patients more sensitive to radiation in specific parts of the rectum. The findings could help reduce rectal toxicity—a common side effect of radiotherapy that can cause severe bowel complications—and pave the way for personalised radiotherapy.
Led by PhD researcher Artemis Bouzaki, the study is the first to integrate genetic data with detailed 3D radiation dose maps of the rectum, revealing that the lower posterior rectum is particularly associated with radiation-induced side effects. The team used voxel-based analysis, a precise imaging method that examines radiation dose effects at the smallest 3D unit of measurement.
Using data from 1,293 prostate cancer patients across Europe and the USA (from the international REQUITE study), researchers found that individuals carrying certain genetic variants showed higher sensitivity to radiation in specific rectal regions.
Rectal toxicity is a significant concern for patients receiving radiotherapy for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men and now the most common cancer in England. Rectal toxicity is a significant concern for patients receiving radiotherapy for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men and now the most common cancer in England
Rectal toxicity is a significant concern for patients receiving radiotherapy for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men and now the most common cancer in England. Rectal toxicity is a significant concern for patients receiving radiotherapy for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men and now the most common cancer in England
Artemis Bouzaki
Co-author Dr Alan McWilliam noted that tailoring radiation doses based on genetic profiles could improve recovery, though further clinical trials are needed.
According to Dr Hayley Luxton of Prostate Cancer UK, the research represents a major step toward personalised prostate cancer treatment, combining genetic profiling and precise radiation mapping to minimise side effects and improve patient outcomes.
Credit: University of Manchester