Okayama University Hosts Symposium on Innovative BNCT Treatment Powered by Drug Discovery

Symposium on Innovative BNCT Treatment

The Neutron Medical Research Center at Okayama University is set to host the 8th symposium titled "Innovative BNCT Powered By Drug Discovery" on December 4, 2025. This event promises to delve into the groundbreaking advancements in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) and the essential role of drug discovery in enhancing cancer treatment.

Event Details

- Date: December 4, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM to 4:20 PM (JST)
- Format: Online via Zoom
- Participation Fee: Free (registration required)

Anyone interested in the integration of medicine and advanced research techniques is encouraged to attend this free symposium. Participants will gain insight into how innovations in drug discovery are paving the way for new BNCT treatment options.

Program Overview

The symposium will commence with a welcoming address by the center's director, Keiichi Naruse, followed by a series of expert presentations:

1. 13:05 - 13:20: Introduction to BNCT Drug Discovery - Hiroyuki Michikami (Neutron Medical Research Center)
An overview of the academic foundation for Boron drug discovery.

2. 13:20 - 13:35: LISMEC: Incorporating N/C Ratios and Cellular Density for BNCT Dosimetry - Takafumi Shigehara and Minoru Suzuki (Kyoto University)
Discussing advancements related to cellular boron distribution in BNCT.

3. 13:35 - 13:50: New Possibilities of BPA - Makoto Shirakawa (Neutron Medical Research Center)
Exploring innovative implications for Boronophenylalanine, a crucial compound in BNCT.

4. 14:00 - 14:50: Keynote Lecture by Marina Menkawa (Okayama University)
A special lecture on the development strategies and applications of theranostic drugs.

5. 15:00 - 15:15: Creation of Boron-based Compounds Targeting RXR for BNCT - Atsushi Mashimo and Hiroki Kakuta (Okayama University)
Focus on new boron compounds designed for BNCT.

6. 15:15 - 15:30: Innovative BNCT Phase 0 Trial for Refractory Bladder Cancer - Hohaku Huang (Neutron Medical Research Center)
Discussing clinical trial strategies.

7. 15:30 - 15:45: Formulation Design Enhancing Boronophenylalanine Function - Takahiro Nomoto (The University of Tokyo)
Presentation on enhancing formulation efficacy for BNCT.

8. 15:45 - 16:00: Cell Delivery of Boron Nitride Using BNCT-targeting Peptides - Kinya Tomizaki (Ryukoku University)
Concluding with insights into peptide applications for treatment.

Registration and Additional Information

To secure your spot, register via the application form or scan the QR code available on the event's flyer. For more details about this and other activities at Okayama University, you may visit their website.

This symposium emphasizes Okayama University's commitment to pioneering cancer treatment strategies worldwide. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, the event aims to bring together researchers, clinicians, and students striving for advancements in medical treatments, ensuring everyone stays at the forefront of medical technology and cancer therapy research.

For inquiries, please contact the Neutron Medical Research Center at 700-8558 Okayama, Okayama, 2-5-1 Kadota-cho, Okayama University. Email: [email protected].