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

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a promisingapproach for selectively targeting and destroying malignant cells using 10B isotopes. Asignificant challenge in BNCT lies in the development of efficient boron delivery systemsthat ensure adequate boron accumulation within tumor cells. This study aims to synthesize,characterize, and evaluate COSAN-functionalized nanoparticles (NP@I-COSAN) as apotential boron carrier for BNCT. Methods: Hybrid nanoparticles were synthesized byconjugating monoiodinated cobaltabisdicarbollides (I-COSAN) to commercially availableacrylic polymer-based nanoparticles. Functionalization and cellular uptake were confirmedthrough FTIR, TGA, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and TEM/EDX analyses. Biocompatibilitywas 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 thoseobtained with 4-borono-L-phenylalanine conjugated to fructose (f-BPA). An in vitro BNCTproof-of-concept assay was also performed to evaluate therapeutic efficacy. Results: NP@ICOSAN demonstrated low cytotoxicity and efficient internalization in cells. ICP-MSanalysis revealed stable boron retention, comparable to traditional boron agents. The BNCTassay further showed that NP@I-COSAN was effective in inducing tumor cell apoptosis,even at lower boron concentrations than conventional treatments. Conclusions: Theseresults underscore the potential of NP@I-COSAN as an effective boron delivery system forBNCT, offering a promising strategy to enhance boron accumulation within tumor cellsand improve treatment efficacy.