NISAR AHMADCIIT/FA23-RPH-032/LHRDr. Naima AminLHR TP 98582026-01-022025https://repository.cuilahore.edu.pk/handle/123456789/100In this study, a multi-layered breast tumor phantom was successfully developed to closely mimic the anatomical and radiological properties of real breast tissues, aiming to enhance the precision and effectiveness of radiotherapy. Four distinct tissue-mimicking layers: skin, fat, lobule and tumor were synthesized using optimized gelatin-based hydrogels, incorporating additives such as NaCl, PVA, glycerin, agar, ethanol, and PEG to replicate tissue-specific characteristics. Iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles were synthesized via the hydrothermal method and characterized using FTIR, XRD, SEM, DLS, and zeta potential analyses, confirming their crystalline structure, morphology, and colloidal stability. Two embedding strategies: premixing and direct injection were employed to incorporate nanoparticles into the tumor layer. The phantoms were irradiated using a 6 MeV photon beam from a linear accelerator (LINAC) with a total dose of 40 Gy. Post-irradiation evaluation using CT and MRI imaging demonstrated a clear contrast at the tumor site; CT scans showed variations in Hounsfield Units indicating localized attenuation, while MRI revealed signal suppression in nanoparticle-loaded regions. The successful fabrication and imaging results confirm that the developed breast phantom not only simulates real breast tissue but also serves as a reliable model for evaluating nanoparticle-based radiation dose enhancement in cancer therapy.enDepartment of PhysicsFA23PhysicsNanoparticleOptimizationRadiationCancer TherapyDr. Naima AminThesis