#Finland #Helsinki #Neutron Therapeutics #BNCT #Helsinki University

Neutron Therapeutics Introduces Advanced Cancer Therapy in Europe

In a significant milestone for cancer treatment, Neutron Therapeutics LLC has joined forces with Helsinki University Hospital to administer boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) to the first group of patients in Europe. This innovative treatment marks the initial application of accelerator-based BNCT outside of Asia, showcasing a major leap in cancer therapy.

Understanding BNCT

Boron neutron capture therapy is a specialized form of radiation therapy that specifically targets tumor cells. The procedure involves a unique reaction where epithermal neutrons interact with a boron-containing compound that selectively accumulates in cancerous tissues. This interaction produces high-energy alpha particles, which effectively destroy tumor cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Unlike conventional chemotherapy or radiation treatments, BNCT can be delivered in just one or two sessions, greatly enhancing patient comfort and recovery.

The First Clinical Trial

The inaugural patients treated with this therapy are part of a ten-patient trial focused on individuals suffering from inoperable, locally recurrent head and neck cancers. Utilizing Neutron Therapeutics' nuBeam® device, which is a compact, high-throughput neutron source, this therapy combines cutting-edge technology with a locally compounded boron drug to optimize treatment efficacy.

Helsinki University Hospital has a long-standing history of BNCT research and clinical trials, having acted as a cornerstone for such innovative therapies since 1992. It's the first medical facility in Europe to implement the nuBeam® Suite, offering the full complement of tools necessary for successful BNCT administration.

NuBeam® Suite: A Clinical Innovation

The nuBeam® Suite is not just a treatment machine; it encompasses advanced patient positioning, imaging technology, and sophisticated treatment planning and control software. Ongoing clinical validation is essential, and Neutron Therapeutics plans to apply for a CE mark once this validation is complete. In parallel, discussions are being held with prominent academic medical centers in the United States to extend this potentially life-saving treatment to American patients.

Expert Insights

"At Neutron Therapeutics, we are thrilled to bring BNCT to the western world, especially as there has been a lengthy absence of this promising treatment due to the closure of reactor-based BNCT facilities,” said Bill Buckley, co-founder of Neutron Therapeutics. This therapy could serve as a viable alternative for patients unable to benefit from traditional treatment methods, creating new hope for those facing challenging diagnoses.

Johanna Mattson, Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Helsinki University Hospital, expressed enthusiasm about this new treatment opportunity: "We are excited to take this first clinical step towards making BNCT available to patients in Finland, and eventually throughout Europe and beyond. This trial addresses a pressing medical need, and our extensive background in BNCT positions us exceptionally to execute this study and additional trials that may benefit even more patients with various types of solid tumors."

The Future of BNCT

Helsinki University Hospital's status as a pioneer in clinical BNCT is well-established. By leveraging the nuBeam® Suite, the facility intends to lead in developing various applications for cancer treatment and becomes Europe's first practitioner of accelerator-based BNCT. With over 200 patients treated with BNCT using a research nuclear reactor, the hospital is set to enhance its contributions to modern oncology significantly.

Neutron Therapeutics continues its vital role in developing boron neutron capture therapy systems, enhancing the landscape of cancer treatment. As the landscape of oncology evolves, the prospects of BNCT look promising for patients at the forefront of cancer innovation.