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ICMAB Research

Enhancing Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) with Materials Based on COSAN-Functionalized Nanoparticles
11 June 2025

A new paper has been published in Pharmaceuticals:

Background/Objectives: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a promising approach for selectively targeting and destroying malignant cells using 10B isotopes. A significant challenge in BNCT lies in the development of efficient boron delivery systems that ensure adequate boron accumulation within tumor cells. This study aims to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate COSAN-functionalized nanoparticles (NP@I-COSAN>) as a potential boron carrier for BNCT. Methods: Hybrid nanoparticles were synthesized by conjugating monoiodinated cobaltabisdicarbollides (I-COSAN) to commercially available acrylic polymer-based nanoparticles. Functionalization and cellular uptake were confirmed through FTIR, TGA, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and TEM/EDX analyses. Biocompatibility was evaluated by assessing cytotoxicity in HeLa cells and C. elegans as an in vivo model. Intracellular boron uptake was quantified using ICP-MS, with results compared to those obtained with 4-borono-L-phenylalanine conjugated to fructose (f-BPA). An in vitro BNCT proof-of-concept assay was also performed to evaluate therapeutic efficacy. Results: NP@I-COSAN> demonstrated low cytotoxicity and efficient internalization in cells. ICP-MS analysis revealed stable boron retention, comparable to traditional boron agents. The BNCT assay further showed that NP@I-COSAN> was effective in inducing tumor cell apoptosis, even at lower boron concentrations than conventional treatments. Conclusions: These results underscore the potential of NP@I-COSAN> as an effective boron delivery system for BNCT, offering a promising strategy to enhance boron accumulation within tumor cells and improve treatment efficacy.

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


Ferrer-Ugalde, Albert; Munoz-Juan, Amanda; Laromaine, Anna; Curotto, Paula; Nievas, Susana; Dagrosa, Maria Alejandra; Couto, Marcos; Nunez, Rosario

Pharmaceuticals18(4), 466, 2025
DOI: 10.3390/ph18040466