Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a promising cancer treatment modality that combines targeted boron agents and neutron irradiation to selectively destroy tumor cells. In mainland China, the clinical implementation of BNCT has made certain progress, primarily driven by the development of compact neutron source devices. The availability, ease of operation, and cost-effectiveness offered by these compact neutron sources make BNCT more accessible to cancer treatment centers. Two compact neutron sources, one being miniature reactor-based (IHNI-1) and the other one being accelerator-based (NeuPex), have entered the clinical research phase and are planned for medical device registration. Moreover, several accelerator-based neutron source devices employing different technical routes are currently under construction, further expanding the options for BNCT implementation. In addition, the development of compact neutron sources serves as an experimental platform for advancing the development of new boron agents. Several research teams are actively involved in the development of boron agents. Various types of third-generation boron agents have been tested and studied in vitro and in vivo. Compared to other radiotherapy therapies, BNCT in mainland China still faces specific challenges due to its limited clinical trial data and its technical support in a wide range of professional fields. To facilitate the widespread adoption of BNCT, it is crucial to establish relevant technical standards for neutron devices, boron agents, and treatment protocols.
硼中子俘获疗法（BNCT）是一种结合靶向硼剂与中子照射的选择性肿瘤细胞清除技术，是具有发展前景的癌症治疗模式。在中国大陆，BNCT的临床实践已取得一定进展，这主要得益于紧凑型中子源装置的发展。这类中子源的可及性、易操作性及成本效益优势，使得BNCT更易被肿瘤治疗中心采纳。目前有两种紧凑型中子源已进入临床研究阶段并计划进行医疗器械注册，其一是基于微型反应堆的IHNI-1装置，另一是基于加速器的NeuPex装置。此外，多条技术路线的加速器中子源装置正在建设中，为BNCT的实施提供了更多选择。紧凑型中子源的发展同时也为推进新型硼剂研发提供了实验平台，多个研究团队正积极开展硼剂研制工作，多种类型的第三代硼剂已在体内外实验中得到验证与研究。相比其他放射疗法，中国大陆的BNCT因临床试验数据有限且涉及多专业领域技术支持，仍面临特定挑战。为促进BNCT的广泛应用，建立针对中子装置、硼剂及治疗方案的相关技术标准至关重要。
A Review of Planned, Ongoing Clinical Studies and Recent Development of BNCT in Mainland of China
肿瘤(癌症)患者之家