boron neutron capture therapy

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a specialized form of radiation therapy used to treat cancer. It involves two key steps: first, a patient is given a boron-containing drug that selectively accumulates in cancer cells. Second, the tumor area is irradiated with neutrons. When neutrons strike the boron atoms within the cancer cells, they trigger a nuclear reaction that releases highly localized, cell-killing radiation.12

This targeted approach aims to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, a critical ethical consideration in cancer treatment. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, which can affect broader areas, BNCT's effectiveness relies on the precise delivery and capture of neutrons by boron within the tumor.312