Core Viewpoint - Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a promising new radiation therapy that aims to effectively kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells, representing a significant advancement over traditional radiation methods [1][2]. Group 1: Technology Overview - BNCT is a binary targeted therapy that involves two main steps: injecting a non-toxic boron-10 compound that accumulates in cancer cells, followed by neutron irradiation that triggers a nuclear reaction to release high-energy particles, effectively damaging cancer cell DNA [1][2]. - The "blast radius" of BNCT is less than 10 micrometers, which is smaller than the diameter of a cancer cell, resulting in minimal harm to normal tissues [2]. Group 2: Historical Context and Development - The concept of BNCT was introduced in the 1930s, with subsequent research focused on its feasibility for cancer treatment [2]. - Historically, strong neutron beams for BNCT were produced using nuclear reactors, which posed challenges for hospital applications. However, advancements in accelerator neutron source technology in the 21st century have made it safer and more cost-effective for clinical use [2]. Group 3: Technological Breakthroughs - The research team has achieved three major technological breakthroughs: 1. Development of a high-power, stable accelerator neutron source system that meets the requirements for proton beam flow [3]. 2. Creation of a second-generation boron compound with improved synthesis efficiency, reduced production costs, and enhanced quality and efficacy [3]. 3. Development of a domestic BNCT treatment planning system (TPS) that accurately analyzes and predicts treatment outcomes [3]. - These advancements position the country among the global leaders in BNCT research and development, with plans to initiate clinical trials by the end of the year [3].

Core Viewpoint - Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a promising new radiation therapy that aims to effectively kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells, representing a significant advancement over traditional radiation methods [1][2]. Group 1: Technology Overview - BNCT is a binary targeted therapy that involves two main steps: injecting a non-toxic boron-10 compound that accumulates in cancer cells, followed by precise neutron irradiation to induce a nuclear reaction that destroys cancer cell DNA [1][2]. - The effective range of BNCT is less than 10 micrometers, which is smaller than the diameter of a cancer cell, resulting in minimal damage to normal tissues and reduced side effects compared to conventional treatments [2]. Group 2: Historical Context and Development - The concept of BNCT was introduced in the 1930s, but practical application faced challenges due to the need for suitable boron compounds and stable neutron sources [2]. - In the 21st century, Japan advanced BNCT technology by developing accelerator neutron sources that are safer and more cost-effective than traditional nuclear reactors, enabling successful treatments for various tumors [2]. Group 3: Technological Breakthroughs - The research team has achieved three major technological breakthroughs: 1. Development of a high-power, stable accelerator neutron source system that meets the requirements for proton beam flow [3]. 2. Creation of a second-generation boron compound with improved synthesis efficiency, reduced production costs, and enhanced quality and efficacy [3]. 3. Development of a domestic BNCT treatment planning system (TPS) that accurately analyzes and predicts treatment outcomes using a proprietary Monte Carlo particle transport program [3]. - The successful integration of these components positions the country among the global leaders in BNCT technology, with plans to initiate clinical trials by the end of the year [3].