Boron Neutron Capture Therapy is a cancer treatment that uses boron-10 to target cancer cells. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Boron" would be transcribed as /ˈbɔːrɒn/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. "Neutron" is pronounced as /ˈnjuːtrɒn/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. "Capture" is transcribed as /ˈkæptʃər/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. Finally, "Therapy" is pronounced as /ˈθerəpi/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. Together, they form the spelling of "Boron Neutron Capture Therapy."
Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a specialized form of radiation therapy that uses the unique properties of boron atoms and neutrons to selectively destroy cancer cells. This therapy targets cancer cells while sparing normal healthy tissues, reducing the side effects typically associated with conventional treatments like chemotherapy or external beam radiation.
BNCT works by injecting a compound containing boron atoms into the patient's bloodstream. Boron has the ability to preferentially accumulate in cancer cells. Once the boron reaches the tumor site, the patient is exposed to a beam of neutrons. The boron atoms readily capture these neutrons, resulting in a nuclear reaction that releases high-energy particles such as alpha particles and lithium ions. These particles can travel very short distances, typically only a few cell diameters, thus limiting the damage to the cancer cells and sparing surrounding healthy cells.
The effectiveness of BNCT is attributed to the high relative biological effectiveness of the released particles, which are highly destructive to cells. This therapy is particularly useful in treating highly invasive tumors, inoperable tumors, or tumors located near important structures such as the brain. Its precision and ability to spare normal tissues make it a promising treatment option for a variety of cancers.
Although BNCT is still an emerging treatment modality, it shows great potential in providing an alternative or complementary approach to existing cancer therapies. Ongoing research and clinical trials aim to further refine and develop this innovative therapy for better outcomes and wider application in cancer treatment.