Enhancing Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) with Materials Based on COSAN-Functionalized Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biotechnology
• Radiotherapy

Background:

• Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) requires efficient boron delivery systems for targeting malignant cells.
• Current boron delivery agents face challenges in achieving adequate tumor cell accumulation.
• Developing novel carriers is crucial for advancing BNCT efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize COSAN-functionalized nanoparticles (NP@I-COSAN) as a boron delivery system for BNCT.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility, cellular uptake, and therapeutic potential of NP@I-COSAN.
• To compare NP@I-COSAN's performance against traditional boron agents.

Main Methods:

• Hybrid nanoparticles (NP@I-COSAN) synthesized by conjugating I-COSAN to acrylic polymer nanoparticles.
• Characterization using FTIR, TGA, UV-Vis, TEM/EDX; cellular uptake and boron quantification via ICP-MS.
• Cytotoxicity assays in HeLa cells and *C. elegans*; in vitro BNCT proof-of-concept assay.

Main Results:

• NP@I-COSAN exhibited low cytotoxicity and efficient cellular internalization.
• Stable boron retention was observed, comparable to established boron agents like f-BPA.
• In vitro BNCT assays demonstrated NP@I-COSAN's efficacy in inducing tumor cell apoptosis at lower concentrations.

Conclusions:

• NP@I-COSAN shows significant potential as an effective boron delivery system for BNCT.
• This nanoparticle strategy can enhance boron accumulation in tumor cells.
• NP@I-COSAN offers a promising approach to improve BNCT treatment outcomes.