Synthesis of rac-1-(9-o-carboranyl)nonyl-2-methyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine (B-Et-11-OMe), a potential boron carrier for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT)

New drugs for BNCT: an experimental approach

New kinds of boron-containing drugs were developed and tested in several murine tumor models. The boron-containing ether lipid B-Et-11-OMe was injected in mammary carcinoma (AT17) and osteosarcoma (OTS-64) bearing mice. Furthermore boron-substituted ferrocenium derivatives were tested. Two were excessively toxic; the third could be investigated. Boron accumulation and time-dependent biodistribution were determined using alpha-particle sensitive films and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission pectrometry (ICP-AES) and -mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) of tumors, organs and tissues. Additionally, a new method of boron detection by NMR is in preparation.

Progress in the field of compounds for boron neutron capture therapy

For successful application of boron neutron capture therapy to the treatment of cancer, selective accumulation of boron is required. This can be achieved by the preparation of suitable substances, which must contain boron and at the same time accumulate or be retained in tumor tissue. The radiobiological rationale for selection of suitable compounds is discussed. Examples of useful new compounds are given for which boronated analogues exist.