Delivery of neutron capture elements for neutron capture therapy

摘要

Neutron capture therapy (NCT) for example, Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) requires the delivery of a neutron capture element such as Boron to a target site to be treated, followed by irradiation with neutrons. The invention provides new means for delivery of the neutron capture element in the form of insoluble inorganic nanoparticles having a particle size of about 10SUP-10 /SUPm to about 10SUP-6/SUPm. The neutron capture element can be in particulate form or in the form of glass or glass ceramic or as a polymerised inorganic matrix or as a sol-gel derived xerogel. The nanoparticles of the invention can further comprise a biocompatible outer layer which provides the function of stealth and assists in providing an appropriate clearance rate. In some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise a core selected from, for example, mica, zeolites, TiOSUB2 /SUBspheres, ZrOSUB2 /SUBspheres or particles or organic polymer particles or spheres surrounded by a thin film of the neutron capture element. Pharmaceutical compositions, uses and methods for the treatment of cancer are disclosed. Also disclosed is a process for the preparation of water insoluble nanoparticles comprising causing friction between pure blocks of the required neutron capture element in an inorganic form and collecting nanoparticles that result therefrom.